Hey all! So I haven't had working power-steering for about 6 months. I was too cheap to replace the pump and didn't really mind it. But recently it developed a whining noise, RPM dependent, similar to when power-steering reservoir is low. So I decided to go ahead and replace the pump. Well, I have power-steering now, but no change in the noise. Is there an easy way to eliminate other options?

It doesn't seem to be coming from the drivers side, so I'd like to eliminate ACE, PS, and AC. Is there a way, besides throwing money at new parts, to figure this out better? I just really hope it isn't the water pump. I've tried the screwdriver method, but it hasn't seemed to help me yet.


Hopefully this video will help:

 

You can get a stethescope that has a stick on the end and stick it on different components. You will know immediately when you touch the one that is whining. If you do not want to purchase one of these, large screwdrivers and a few longer extensions for a wratchet will work as well.

My alternator sounded like that and I just took it apart and replaced the bearings, but to be honest any of the components with a bad bearing can sound like that.

 

I use a wooden yardstick, very effective. It keeps you further away from the engine roar so the sound is more distinct.

EDIT: I've had alternators sound like that, but I'd verify with some sort of Stethoscope/Yardstick before spending money.

 

What ever listening aid you select, including a broom handle, be sure to keep dreadlocks and long metal chain jewelry away from the serpantine belt. No one wants to kiss the fan. Does sound like a lot of angry hamsters.

 

Dang, I need to cut my dreadlocks off? I guess I could just use Duct Tape to hold them back...

 

And mah haid iz sooo fatt I'd knead a lot o duck tape...

 

That sounds like a pulley bearing. Here's what you do:

Remove belt and spin pulleys by hand. One is going to sound way different, that's your culprit.

Replace that bad pulley. And then put the belt back on the correct way.

 

Sounds exactly like my ACE sounded before I found a kink in the line coming from filler.

Could be others but i'd start there.

 

So, when I took the load off of the power steering pump - a brand new pump from All Makes by the way - i had NO more noise in the cabin in the rover.

Yes, could be a pulley too.
I just have been putting up with the sickening noise.

I tested for it by loosing the belt.
This is not a safe procedure to do it dynamically so be careful

 

Yikes! You've got bigger b*lls than I do... I just see metal and rubber flying everywhere, with some skin and bones mixed in.