Power steering pump. Easy to replace? - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

JenTay · #1 11-10-2008, 09:15 AM

We might be venturing into minivan territory here soon. I've got a chance to buy a 2003 Dodge Caravan that makes a lot of high pitched noises when you turn the wheel. I assume that the pump is about to die.

In general, are power steering pumps easy to replace? If I can replace an alternator, a tensioner arm on a Benz, I should be able to do it. The question is, is it a pretty straightforward job or is it pretty tricky?

rs899 · #2 11-10-2008, 09:47 AM

Jen-

In theory, power steering pumps should be easy to replace. Should be 3 or 4 bolts and two hoses.

But it just depends on access and if you can swing a wrench in there.

I got started on buying MBs just because of a power steering pump failure on my wife's 1992 Dodge Spirit. The car was otherwise running OK (burned oil), but I knew I would have to be doing a lot or work on that car soon. So, one day, the PS belt slipped off- I can only assume the pulley bearing was bad and the the belt would't stay on. So I looked at where the PS pump was (front wheel drive v-6 Mitsubishi engine)-

back up against the firewall under the back bank of cylinders. I didn't want to deal with it so I got rid of it and started buying W123s.

Minivan might well be a problem.

Rick

PaulC · #3 11-10-2008, 10:14 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JenTay

We might be venturing into minivan territory here soon. I've got a chance to buy a 2003 Dodge Caravan that makes a lot of high pitched noises when you turn the wheel. I assume that the pump is about to die.

In general, are power steering pumps easy to replace? If I can replace an alternator, a tensioner arm on a Benz, I should be able to do it. The question is, is it a pretty straightforward job or is it pretty tricky?

As alluded to earlier, component access is the primary issue: http://www.autozone.com/addVehicleId,2860202/initialAction,repairGuide/shopping/repairGuide.htm?pageId=0900c15280042217

JenTay · #4 11-10-2008, 10:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by PaulC

As alluded to earlier, component access is the primary issue: http://www.autozone.com/addVehicleId,2860202/initialAction,repairGuide/shopping/repairGuide.htm?pageId=0900c15280042217

Thank you. That's very helpful.

rs899 · #5 11-10-2008, 11:27 AM

Quote:

Install or connect the following:
Power steering gear
Intermediate shaft coupler. Start the roll pin into the coupler before installing the coupler, start the roll pin and then user a hammer to tap it into the coupler. Install the coupler on the shaft of the gear. Install removal/installer tool 6831A through the center of the roll pin, using the knurled nut to secure it. Hold the threaded rod stationary while turning the nut to pull the pin into the coupler.
Installing the intermediate shaft coupler to the gear
Steering gear mounting fasteners. Torque the 14mm fasteners to 135 ft. lbs. (183 Nm) and the 12mm fastener to 70 ft. lbs. (95 Nm).
Power steering pressure and return lines. Torque the line to 25 ft. lbs. (31 Nm).
Power transfer unit, if equipped with AWD
Crossmember reinforcement. Tighten the M14 bolts to 113 ft. lbs. (153 Nm) and the M12 bolts to 78 ft. lbs. (106 Nm).
Lower control arm rear bushing bolts. Torque the bolts to 45 ft. lbs. (61 Nm).
Outer tie rod ends to the steering knuckle. Torque the nut to 55 ft. lbs. (75 Nm).
Leak detection pump-to-cradle crossmember bolts, if equipped
Power steering cooler-to-cradle bolts, if equipped
Single hose at the power steering cooler and fasten the clamp
Front emissions vapor canister, if equipped
Front wheels
Steering column shaft coupler. Tighten the pinch bolt to 21 ft. lbs. (28 Nm).
Negative battery cable
Fill and bleed the power steering reservoir
Inspect the power steering system for leaks and repair if necessary.
Check the wheel alignment and adjust as necessary.
Cradle crossmember reinforcement mounting

Oh boy- forget it.
That's worse than a W115 blower motor.