Ok, I have a 1997 3500 with the 12v. I am on my 7nth hydro booster in this truck within the last 8 months. I have not been able to find one that will last. I have replaced the pump, hoses and steering box. Installed a fluid cooler and all new fluid, won't last.


I have a friend that owns a 1996 2500 12v that came with a vacuum booster on it from the factory and it works great. I am thinking of getting rid of the hydro booster and installing a vacuum booster.


So I am wondering if anyone has done this or knows of any reason why it wouldn't work.


If it is possible can I use the pump that I bought and just plug off the extra holes since I would not need those without the hydro boost?

 

Why are they failing? Where are you getting them?

 

I wish I new why they are failing. The only input I have received from one of them is that they found a broken spring inside. That one didn't last at all, I had to pull it back out as soon as I put it in and send it back. That tells me that it was not thoroughly remanufactured. I have gone through all of the correct bleeding procedures. I have purchased them from all the name brand auto parts stores and one from a recommended on line company. The on line company is the one that repaired the spring. I was able to get the contact information of the actual reman company from them and could talk with the owner. He was very helpful but still I have a failed unit which is the one in the truck now.


None of these last more than 0 - 100 miles. I am at a loss.

 

That's just crazy. It shouldn't be a problem converting to vacuum. As far as using the same pump goes, I'm not sure how well it would respond to being dead-headed.