Power steering systems have made driving large vehicles much easier over the years. Generally, the system does not need much maintenance but there are some signs that could indicate a problem with the pump in the system. If these problems arise, you should take the truck in for service.
Groaning Noises
Any time you hear a groaning noise from your vehicle's steering pump, you should check the pump. The groaning noise is often a result of air getting into the system and causing voids that the oil or fluid is unable to pass through.
The result is the groaning noise you hear as the air gets into the steering pump. In some cases, this just means the system needs more oil or fluid in it, but it can indicate a leak somewhere that is allow the oil level to drop in the steering system that needs repair.
Jumping Or Suging Steering
Generally, the steering pumps in large trucks are designed to smoothly transition from right to left and back without any jumping or spots where the steering becomes harder. If you are experiencing a surging or jumping in the steering when you are turning it, the steering pump may not be delivering the full amount of pressure to the steering box that is required to turn the wheels.
Low pump pressure can be caused by many things, including worn parts inside the pump, low power steering fluid levels, or a belt that is slipping on the power steering pump pulley.
It is important to have the system checked if this happens because the pump may fail unexpectedly if the problem is not addressed. Take the truck into a shop that works on power steering pumps and let them know what you are experiencing so they can diagnose the problem properly.
Lose Of Steering Assitance
Sometimes, power steering pumps can stop working just like any power steering system, but if you suddenly have no power steering assistance and the truck engine is running, you may have broken a belt or a hose may have ruptured. Look under the engine of the truck to see if there is power steering fluid leaking on the ground. If you find that there is, shut the truck off immediately.
Driving any kind of truck without power steering can be difficult so you may want to consider having the truck towed to a truck center for repair. If you try to drive it, you could do permanent damage to the steering box and system that is will be costly to repair. As such, it's best to leave the work to the professionals. For more information about power steering pumps, such as Navistar power steering pumps, contact a supplier. They can help you better understand this equipment.
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