power steering issue on W124
 

I cant seem to figure out what is wrong here, the pump pulley stops when car is standing and wheels are turned either direction ( under load )

If I lift the front end off the ground it does not do it unless its turned all the way to either direction.

Video showing what it does please note the belt is brand spanking new and tension is good.


https://youtu.be/jgQ5VGLYQUo

Check to make sure the serpentine belt is routed correctly, it is possible to install it wrong, and then it is too loose, BTDT...

Your pump is asking for more power and you dont have enough grip to turn the pully .Check that the belt is on the right places. Or tension on adjuster may be wrong . Or shockabsorber is shot.

Sounds like a relief valve issue.

Im assuming the belt is routed correct.

This can happen if the fluid is too thick and the relief valve in the pump is jamming. Did you happen to use regular store bought power steering fluid? And how old is the fluid in there

Fluid is 20k old old belt was chewed up and this belt in the video is about 15 minutes old

It only happens under load someone said ball joints are shot but I dont think that wold cause pump to stop

What power steering fluid should I use ? I already got a filter to service the pump hoping this is the issue.

use ATF ?

Just to be sure...
http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/diesel-discussion/147330-om603-serpentine-belt-routing.html

Also, the tensioner spring can break letting the belt slip.

You can use just about any PS fluid, even automatic transmission fluid, as long as you change it occasionally. (~30,000 miles) Personally, I prefer a clear (not colored) PS fluid, as it's easier to see when it's dirty (needing to be changed) regardless of miles.

Jeremy

use an ATF in there - saginaw type power steering fluid is quite thick when cold (good boost assist) but really taxes the pump if not made for it.

If you want an undyed ATF that you see what the factory filled then you can buy it at NAPA - its sold as Lubro Moly steering gear oil. I think I saw it for 8 dollars a litre and its basically dexron II with some stiff antifoam additives.

I have used it in toyotas as it matches the factory PSF color of theirs.

Bad ball joints can indeed severely tax the pump... Take a look at them before you lose a fender...

please let us know if you have sorted the problem out or not.

Belt is tensioned well you can hardly push on it by hand while engine off

The car is under snow right now will try and get to it next week, I will change power steering fluid again and see how it goes but I am thinking it's more complicated than that.

Can i ask you if you routed the belt as per instructions .And is it the right belt ,plus what number of groves in the belt . You can get 4 belts for this engine .

Blk this is the one i have looked in to its the 1993 300td