I have a 2000 dodge Dakota with a 4.7. I have put 3 power steering pumps on this truck. after each pump, it still has a whining noise. I bled one by filling up the pump, starting the truck, turning the wheel not hitting the stops and checking the fluid. another one I filled the pump, turned the wheel back and forth with the wheels off the floor, checking the fluid as I go and then starting the truck.
can anyone tell me why it would still have the whining noise or how to find the problem and fix it?

 

Are you sure it's the power steering pump? Lots of other rotating parts in there. If you keep replacing the same part but still have the same problem, maybe it's something else. You don't state otherwise.

 

Did you check the lines when you changed pumps? Perhaps a clogged line is not allowing your pump to move fluid sufficiently.

 

Some whining is "normal."

Are you using the right fluid?

It doesn't sound like you bled it correctly the first time. You don't just start it and turn the wheel.

From the 2000 FSM:

Wipe filler cap clean, then check the fluid level. The dipstick should indicate COLD when the fluid is at normal temperature.
(1) Turn steering wheel all the way to the left
(2) Fill the pump fluid reservoir to the proper level and let the fluid settle for at least two (2) minutes.
(3) Raise the front wheels off the ground.
(4) Slowly turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock 20 times with the engine off while checking the fluid level.

NOTE: Vehicles with long return lines or oil coolers turn wheel 40 times.

(5) Start the engine. With the engine idling maintain the fluid level.
(6) Lower the front wheels and let the engine idle for two minutes.
(7) Turn the steering wheel in both direction and verify power assist and quiet operation of the pump. If the fluid is extremely foamy or milky looking,
allow the vehicle to stand a few minutes and repeat the procedure.

CAUTION: Do not run a vehicle with foamy fluid for an extended period. This may cause pump damage.

 

as always my friends here have great info. but can add only one thing. do NOT flush the pump under power with solvent, gasoline or other thin fluids. they do not have the lubrication needed to protect the pump.

 

I haven't changed the lines yet but think this may be the next thing I try. I used power steering fluid from autozone off the shelf. should I be using a special type of fluid?

 

That info an be found in your owners manual. If you don't have one, I'm sure you can download one off the Dodge website or buy one off eBay.

 

Does the fluid meet MS5931 spec's? If so, you're using the right fluid.

TSB 19-005-03 applies.

Checked for a damaged or kinked line?