2001 Dodge Ram 2500 Diesel

2001 DODGE RAM
160,000 MILES • 6 CYL • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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JMCKINNEY1066
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No steering. replaced steer box but not problem. how do I troubleshoot pump determine if bad?
Dec 5, 2010 at 7:32 PM
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CARADIODOC
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 34,321 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
The dealer has a pressure gauge with a shutoff valve that is inserted in the hose between the pump and gear box. The valve is turned off, then if pressure rises to around 1100 psi, the pump is working. If pressure drops when the valve is opened, there is internal leakage in the steering gear. That is more of a rack and pinion thing. I've never heard of a steering gear box causing loss of power assist.

Try pulling the pulley off the pump. I've had two where the pump's shaft was broken and you could pull it right out. The seals never leaked and the pulleys didn't wobble or make noise.

caradiodoc
Dec 5, 2010 at 7:43 PM
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