Power steering problem

[d p - 400se]

My 400 has started to make a very unpleasant noise when turning the steering wheel accompanied by a lack of "assistance". Any suggestions as to the problem for someone who can just about manage to change a spark plug?

[AM400]

Sounds like it could be the power steering pump to me.

Andy.

[Boosted LS1]

Yep, it's most likely the pump. All you have to do is grasp the pulley wheel and see if you can rock it. If it rocks, the bearings shagged. It looks like a rover pump so I'd suggest you try Rimmer Bros for a replacement.

[mrcrappy]

mines doing the same and it was just the return hose jubilee clips were loose, try nipping up any connections top the fluid up and give it a try, i was panicing last week (v. embarassing in traffic) certainly cheaper than a pump at £130 minimum other wise go to a scrappy and get a montego or sdi pump. good luck

[RAW-SEWedge]

Have you checked the fluid level in the resevoir and the drive belt tension ?

I was told it had a new rack just before I bought it and the front bushes, tack rod ends and rack did all look new. Guess the pump would be the next thing to check. Check for bearing wear and obvious signs of leaks.

Good luck.

Not swayed by a SEAC yet then ?

[Boosted LS1]

My pump also used to squeal a bit when the fluid was low. Quite a handy reminder to fill it up.

[father ted]

.....is the reservoir the pot in front of the air filter? (fwd left side of engine bay).....?

[d p - 400se]

I know i should know this, but where is the p/s fluid reservoir ?

[blaineuk]

passenger side of car at the front of the engine. you should see a cap with a chain connected to it. i think that if you take the top off it has a shot dip stick on it to chack the level
cheers
blaine