The power steering pump on my 88 GL wagon recently started making a loud screeching noise when the wheel was turned hard, and a constant clattering noise whether or not the wheel was being turned. The wheel also became quite difficult to turn when the vehicle is moving slowly. I replaced the pump with one from my parts car, and all the noises have completely gone away. However, strangely enough the wheel isn't any easier to turn. Is it possible that this pump is bad too but just doesn't make noise, or is there something wrong with my steering rack?

 

EDIT: I just realized that I refilled the system with Power Steering Fluid instead of the recommended Dextron ATF. Could this be causing the new pump to still be hard to steer at low speeds, and does that cause any damage? I'm going to switch back to ATF tonight.

Edited May 17, 201411 yr by alaskaloyale

Only difference really is some red dye and detergents.

 

Possible gunk in the system, how long did you drive it being a screamer?

Edited May 17, 201411 yr by TallonX

The noise built slowly, but I drove it for quite some time with the noise, didn't replace the pump till the wheel became hard to turn.