If you are having difficulties steering your diesel truck, Village Diesel Works advises that the problem could be the power steering pump. Generally, the pump lasts about 100,000 miles before it goes bad. We are going to list the signs of a faulty steering pump below so you can compare the problems you’re having with your truck’s steering with these signs. No matter what the problem is, we can fix it here at our diesel service shop in Woodbury.
Groaning Noises
Sometimes, the steering will start to groan when you turn the wheel of your diesel truck. These groaning noises are coming from the steering pump because it is going bad. In addition to groaning sounds, the pump may also moan or squeal. Usually, the noise increases in volume the tighter you turn the steering wheel. Head straight to our shop if you hear noises when you turn the wheel.
Tight Wheel
The steering pump is responsible for circulating the hydraulic steering fluid through the system so it’s easy to turn your truck. If the circulation is poor or nonexistent, you may find that it is extremely difficult to turn the steering wheel. Unfortunately, this makes controlling the diesel truck difficult. This being said, replacing the steering pump will restore the ease of steering.
Unresponsiveness
If the steering pump dies, or if there is another problem in the steering system, your diesel truck may stop responding to your steering commands. For example, you may turn the steering wheel to make a right-hand turn only to have the truck continue to move straight. This makes driving the diesel truck dangerous, and we recommend that you have it towed to our shop.
Leaking Fluid
Our diesel repair shop in Roseville can also repair a power steering fluid leak. When the steering pump gets old, the seals will wear out and it will start to leak red fluid all over the garage floor. This is the power steering fluid. It’s important to replace the pump as soon as possible to avoid additional difficulties turning the wheel because of the steering fluid loss.
Silvery Fluid
Finally, the steering fluid may turn from red to silver if it is being filled with metal particles from the steering pump. Unfortunately, this is a sign that the pump is disintegrating and it cannot be repaired. In this case, we will have to replace the pump.
Call Village Diesel Works in Roseville or Woodbury, MN, today if you are having problems with your diesel truck’s power steering.