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Drivetrain => The Nailhead => Topic started by: cwmcobra on July 22, 2009, 10:19:54 PM

Title: Need Power Steering Help
Post by: cwmcobra on July 22, 2009, 10:19:54 PM

My GS came to me minus the hoses for the power steering system.  I bought and installed them, then filled the pump with fluid.  Started the engine and turned the steering wheel back and forth several times to bleed air.  Unfortunately, there is still no power assist.  The only obvious problem is that the cap on the pump does not seal and allows fluid to be pumped out of the pump around the cap during use.  I haven't found a stock PS pump cap yet, so haven't fixed that.  But I suspect something else is wrong.  Any experience?

Thanks,

Chuck

Title: Re: Need Power Steering Help
Post by: Brian on July 23, 2009, 08:06:59 AM

If the fluid is pumping out the cap when the engine is running, then there is something wrong internally in the pump.  The cap is vented and you can actually run the engine with the cap off and no fluid should come out just sitting there--it is just a resivour for the fluid.  I recommend replacing the pump. 

Title: Re: Need Power Steering Help
Post by: cwmcobra on July 26, 2009, 01:16:36 PM

Thanks Brian.  Are the old style pumps still available?  Perhaps it will need to be rebuilt if they are not?

Chuck

Title: Re: Need Power Steering Help
Post by: Loren At 65GS on July 26, 2009, 01:52:01 PM

Chuck,
I haven't seen a source for the pump other than a good used one . Occcasionally an overhaul kit shows up.

The good news is that it is the same pump for all models , if I recall correctly. There is a short neck and a long neck version. Have only seen the short neck version on the BB engines.

Any other info out there?

Loren

Title: Re: Need Power Steering Help
Post by: cwmcobra on July 26, 2009, 01:59:15 PM

Thanks Loren.  I'm going to check for a blockage in the pressure output first, then look for a rebuild solution if I can't fix it that way.

Chuck

Title: Re: Need Power Steering Help
Post by: Mark Ascher on July 26, 2009, 02:04:12 PM

Chuck,

I had mine rebuilt at:

www.larescorp.com

Mark

Title: Re: Need Power Steering Help
Post by: cwmcobra on July 26, 2009, 04:27:34 PM

Thanks Mark.  I'll add them to my list of service providers.

Your project is coming along VERY well.  I look forward to following additions to your restoration thread.

Chuck

Title: Re: Need Power Steering Help
Post by: Mark Ascher on July 26, 2009, 08:26:18 PM

Chuck,

Thank you! It looks the pace will quicken in the following months as I'd like to finish it for the BCA Nats in Iowa next year.

Mark

Title: Re: Need Power Steering Help
Post by: cwmcobra on July 27, 2009, 09:34:05 PM

I love an easy fix.  I drained the pump and took the pressure fitting off and found that the valve in the pressure output was installed backwards.  I checked the manual and confirmed it.  Then reveresed it, reassembled it and I now have power steering.  I'm sure all my problems won't be this easy, so I will enjoy it while I can.

Thanks for your help.  I'm sure I'll be in touch on other questions.

Chuck