Have some Power Steering Problems and Leaks and Vibrations
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Have some Power Steering Problems and Leaks and Vibrations
I have a big problem with my 2006 Dodge Caravan 3.3L
Basically sometimes the steering wheel vibrates. The car constantely is making a moaning noise when driving especially when turning, its basically coming from the power steering. In the past this issue was fixed just by changing the power steering fluid but after a few months it kept always coming back.
I looked under the car and inspected the suspension to find where the vibrations were coming from and it seems on the drivers side near the wheel/suspension there is a huge leak.
I attached a few photos. It looks like the Tie Rod Steering boot is leaking, however looking further towards the center of the car, there is some massive leak in the middle somewhere. Looks like a huge leak in the middle of the steering rack.
I though there was grease inside the steering boot and not oil, it looks like its covered in oil not grease.
What needs to be replaced? I know this is a common issue and others had a similar problem.
Thanks
Basically sometimes the steering wheel vibrates. The car constantely is making a moaning noise when driving especially when turning, its basically coming from the power steering. In the past this issue was fixed just by changing the power steering fluid but after a few months it kept always coming back.
I looked under the car and inspected the suspension to find where the vibrations were coming from and it seems on the drivers side near the wheel/suspension there is a huge leak.
I attached a few photos. It looks like the Tie Rod Steering boot is leaking, however looking further towards the center of the car, there is some massive leak in the middle somewhere. Looks like a huge leak in the middle of the steering rack.
I though there was grease inside the steering boot and not oil, it looks like its covered in oil not grease.
What needs to be replaced? I know this is a common issue and others had a similar problem.
Thanks
Last edited by adaseb; Oct 24, 2012 at 10:21 PM.
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Joined: Jun 2012
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From: Lindsay, Ontario, Canada
Technically need to replace the rack, pump and reservoir. If you don't change all 3, the part you don't change will ruin the parts you change. THere is no grease in the inner tie rod covers. THat is supposed to be dry as a bone. My van does exactly what yours is doing except for the whining. When my pump finally does fail, I will be changing all three of those plus the outer tie rods as they are cheap and you'll be there already anyways.
Not a cheap repair, even if you do your own labor.
Not a cheap repair, even if you do your own labor.
Thread Starter
|
Registered User
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
Technically need to replace the rack, pump and reservoir. If you don't change all 3, the part you don't change will ruin the parts you change. THere is no grease in the inner tie rod covers. THat is supposed to be dry as a bone. My van does exactly what yours is doing except for the whining. When my pump finally does fail, I will be changing all three of those plus the outer tie rods as they are cheap and you'll be there already anyways.
Not a cheap repair, even if you do your own labor.
Not a cheap repair, even if you do your own labor.
Veteran
Joined: Jun 2012
Posts: 340
Likes: 1
From: Lindsay, Ontario, Canada
Yes. THe problem is in the rack since it has external and internal leaks. It is causing hte pump to over-work and cavitate. That is why you will ruin the pump and if you install a new rack a new pump would be best to avoid pressure issues. Same goes for the reservoir, they have a non-removable screen filter that is famous for clogging. I have not repaired my van yet, I'm waiting for the funds to replace all 3, plus it isn't that bad yet. My van only vibrates when I am sitting still turning the wheel.