isolated a scratching and squeeking noise to the power steering pump. its most noticeable on startup, lasts for maybe 10-15 minutes, then quiets down. louder when it's colder outside. belt and tension are fine, fluid level and filter are fine, and theres no noticeable difference in steering control. louder at idle, quiets down under load. pump i'm assuming is original to the car, so it's got well over 300,000 miles on it.

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1981 NA 300D 310k miles