Steering noise

[sib8292]

When parking and using full (or almost full) lock as the car moves, I get a groaning noise from the steering gear. Sounds as if something needs lubrication. Anything obvious to check first?

 

[mik_ok]

Apparently they all do it.

Mine does, as does another S2 I know of, and a Turbo.

 

[Diver944]

This is true, but some people have reported improvement with a change of the PAS fluid (my S2 improved , my Turbo did not). The only other way is to replace/rebuild the power steering pump and the steering rack. As long as you have no leaks, and all the rubber gaitors are sound underneath then IMHO it's fine just to live with it.

My S2 has groaned for 6 years and the 60,000 miles we've put on it (or is that my wife because I drive to fast [8|] )

 

[carlmthompson]

On a related note, mine makes a noise when you turn the wheel from lock to lock (like a continous pitch going "whoooo" - a bit like running something metal down a bit of scaf bar). It only does it when it's warm, and doesn't do it while driving - just when parking (i.e when you move the wheel alot).

 

[chrisg]

Hi there,

In my limited experience with PAS systems and in particular the 944 system, this is usually a function of the pump cavitating, namely its pumping air rather than ATF/PAS fluid. This could be because there is a leak in the system somewhere and air is being drawn in or because the gravity feed out of the bottom of the reservoir is compromised by the pipe being kinked or twisted.

Thing to remember is the system circulates fluid from the reservoir upressurised, into the pump pressurised, into the rack, then out to the cooling loop (actually square) before returning under low pressure to the reservoir.

If the system is working correctly (and up to normal operating temperature) the fluid in the reservoir shouldn't be frothy and be gently stirring as it returns from the cooling loop under the bumper on the drivers side.

Hopes this helps,

Chris

 

[colin944]

Confirm froth = air in system.

 

[pbrett]

Okay I seem to have sorted the steering:- topped up reservoir, changed jubilee clip on the bottom of reservoir that looked suspicious, and tightened other one, purged air from system, topped up again and hay presto no froth or bubbles in reservoir and no noise. Steering working fine!!

Also adjusted the free play on the clutch pedal so now only about 3mm (as per the book) instead of 3 inches. The feel of the clutch is now as it should be.

now maybe a promax stage one kit to boost the power!!