I was searching for this issue, but couldn't find it, so here I go: When turning the steering wheel on my 1992 Mondial T while the engine is running, you can hear a very loud squeaking noise coming from the area of the hydraulic pump for the powered steering. It's only when you turn the steering wheel, not when you leave it as it is. Stops when you stop turning the wheel. Do you guys think this in an engine out thing, or can it easily be accessed through the RH wheel area? Has anyone ever rebuilt a hydraulic pump?
That's an age-old problem for most power steering systems. Traditionally, the main causes were/are low fluid or a slightly loose belt. An oil-soaked belt can do the same. But it'll be interesting to hear what you find out for the t.
The power steering on my Toyota has some sort of load/ unloading valve on its outlet. As the pump is turning all the time you might want to check the outlet to see if you have something similar- if the wheel is straight then it is not pumping, but when turning the wheel the pump has to produce pressure to turn the wheels, this being when you get your noise- might be a relief valve passing excess pressure. See if a screwed plug which might hide a valve and spring that needs a clean. The pump cannot be loaded and producing pressure all the time as the fluid would get overheated i think.
This happen to me as well, after my last engine out the problem went away...loose belt perhaps? Seems to happen only when cold.
Maybe it is the cold? My 3 old company car has it too when cold already when it left the showroom. I noticed my new Alfa Romeo has it too now that it is colder. What does it do when you drive for 30min?
very true, I know this guy that's a credit to the community. I should introduce him to you (although you probably already know him)
Stefan where exactly you are hearing the squealing? on top of your steering wheel or behind you? I guess also with cold, like the alternator belt, you can hear it when it is cold. that mean indeed tighten it up., but if it is from your steering wheel I cannot imagine it is a belt issue.
Martijn, it's a Mondial T, the sound comes from the LH side of the engine, so the servo pump. Hopefully I can go out for a drive tomorrow if it doesn't rain