Installation Errors Increase Risk of Power Steering Pump Returns
Replacing a power steering pump is a fairly simple job on most vehicles. But if the installation is not done correctly, it may result in noisy operation, reduced power assist or no power assist at all, according to Mike Simon of Ixetic, a manufacturer of power steering pumps.
Why do Automotive Ball Joints, Tie Rods and Suspension Links Wear Out?
The ball and socket joint has been around on animals and humans for millennia. This simple design has been used on vehicles since the turn of the century because it works. But, just like our hip joints, ball and socket joints like ball joints, tie-rods and sway bar links wear out.
Tech Feature: Nissan Brake and Suspension Repairs; Solving Noise Complaints
At first, you may not think brake and suspension systems are closely related. But when it comes to noise and vibration complaints, you don’t want to be looking at one without considering the other.
Tech Feature: 2010 Camaro Has Power To Spare
Recently, I had an opportunity to drive both the 3.6L DOHC V6 and the 6.2L V8 versions at a press event held at Road America race track in Elkhart Lake, WI. The first Camaro I drove on the track felt really strong and I assumed it was the V8. So, I was rather surprised when I opened the hood and found a V6 sitting under the plastic trim cover.
Kia Tech Tip: Increased Low-Speed Steering Effort
In areas where heavy road salt use occurs, customer complaints have identified increased steering effort and noise (from the steering intermediate shaft) on the 2002-’05 (GQ) Sedona. The increased effort is usually first noticed with a noise or rattle at low speeds. When addressing such customer concerns, replace the steering intermediate shaft using P/N 0K52Y 32550 following the instructions in this technical service bulletin.
Tech Tip: Mercedes-Benz Suspension/ABS-Steering Angle Sensor Service
For Model 163 vehicles, including the 2003 ML 350, ensure WIS document AR46.10-P-0400GH is followed and adhered to when removing and installing the jacket tube. Do not separate the coupling below the steering angle sensor (N49) or damage to the sensor rotor may occur.
Alignment Trends: What is the Future of the Alignment Bay?
In the past two years, we have seen more vehicles on the market with stability management and adaptive cruise control. If a vehicle with one of these systems comes into your shop for alignment, be aware that any changes in the steering position sensor’s “zero” position may have drastic consequences for the safety of the vehicle. If the data from a steering position sensor is off after an alignment adjustment, the car could think it is in a turn and try to perform a correction.
Tech Feature: Go Back to the Basics to Solve Power Steering Pump Issues
We often take the commonplace power steering pump for granted until the driver begins to notice a lack of power assist during parking or the pump itself begins to develop an irritating growling or whining noise. Although installing a new or remanufactured replacement pump usually remedies the majority of power assist and noise complaints, a technician may still encounter a few of these complaints that appear to have no outward cause.
Taking The ‘Ho-Hum’ Out of Ride Control Sales
Despite the increased quality of ride and stability control systems during the past decade, remember that springs, shock absorbers and MacPherson struts wear out just like tires, brakes and other expendable parts. Don’t miss sales opportunities for this often-overlooked system.
Tech Tip: New Caster/Camber Adjustments for Old Ford Ranger
The cam bolt and nut kit that was used for adjusting caster and camber on all torsion bar and coil spring front suspensions prior to 2004 has been discontinued. Now, if the caster and camber settings need to be adjusted, a washer must be installed. The right-hand upper control arm design changed from a two-piece design to a single-piece design during the 2003 model year.
Tech Tip: Steering You to a Leaky Saturn Solution
By Ed Dorowski, ALLDATA Editor and Jeff Webster, ALLDATA Technical writer A Saturn owner may complain about steering system leaks or noises. Refer to this Tech Tip for general diagnostic information about power steering noise and/or leak diagnosis on Saturn L-Series and S-Series vehicles equipped with hydraulic power steering. Applicable Models: • 2000-2005 Saturn L-Series
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