Variable Assist Grinding Noise

[shyguy164]

I've got the variable assist steering on my 95 convertible. It makes a grinding noise even when I'm not turning the wheel. I've had the pump replaced. The variable assist solenoid is not available anymore. I'm thinking the solenoid is stuck almost shut. It allows enough fluid for proper steering, but doesnt allow enough to prevent the grinding noise. I'm thinking of removing the solenoid and replacing the high pressure hose with the hose that is used when you dont have variable assist. The hose is $20 compared to whatever a new rack costs. I'm just wondering what anyone thinks about this. Is it the variable assist solenoid causing the grinding or the rack? Thanks much!

[Crazy K]

hmmm.

 

have you tries unplugging the wires to the variable assist to see what happens?

[shyguy164]

hmmm.

 

have you tries unplugging the wires to the variable assist to see what happens?

 

Yes sir, that was one of the first things I tried. The grinding noise didn't go away.

[Crazy K]

take the belt off and spin the P/S pump manually.

[shyguy164]

take the belt off and spin the P/S pump manually.

 

May I ask what you're going after here?

[Crazy K]

take the belt off and spin the P/S pump manually.

 

May I ask what you're going after here?

making sure you don;t have a dud pump. (although you did replace it.)

 

 

next I would suggest raised the car so both front wheels are off the ground, and with the car off turn the wheels left to right and back over and over. have a helper turn the wheel while you trace the noise.

 

be safe and use jack stands or do not go under the car.

[shyguy164]

Good idea, I'll try that. This is actually the 2nd replacement pump. I convinced the mechanic to remove the 1st replacement because it was still grinding. So now I'm on the 2nd replacement.

[rockfangd]

sounds like the rack could be going bad to me

[shyguy164]

take the belt off and spin the P/S pump manually.

 

May I ask what you're going after here?

making sure you don;t have a dud pump. (although you did replace it.)

 

 

next I would suggest raised the car so both front wheels are off the ground, and with the car off turn the wheels left to right and back over and over. have a helper turn the wheel while you trace the noise.

 

be safe and use jack stands or do not go under the car.

 

Ok, I tried the front wheels off the ground thing and there was no grinding. I think I'm just going to try removing the EVO component and getting the other high pressure hose. Thanks for the ideas!

[Crazy K]

could the grinding be from the lower strut bearings? and not the rack?

 

try a loaded test with teh car on the ground and have a friend do the same thing. preferably with your wheels on something like loose dirt to reduce friction and both with the engine on and off.