Steering sticking after changing rack and pinion

CLIF MORRIS

MEMBER
2006 KIA SORENTO
3.5L
6 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
150,000 MILES

I changed the rack and pinion on the vehicle listed above about a month ago because the steering was sticking but no whining sound coming from power steering pump. The power steering worked fine for about 2 days and then the power sticking problem reoccurred. I checked the power steering fluid and it is good but the fluid is not swirling (like it was when I changed the rack a couple of days before), but I am not getting any whining noise. What could be the problem before I go out and buy a new power steering pump?

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,724 POSTS

Hi,

The only thing you can do is check the power steering pump pressure to confirm that is the problem. Here is a link that explains how that is done. The attached pic correlates with the directions.

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2006 Kia Truck Sorento 4WD V6-3.5L
Oil Pump Pressure Test Checking the Oil Pump Relief Pressure
Vehicle Steering and Suspension Steering Power Steering Power Steering Pump Testing and Inspection Component Tests and General Diagnostics Oil Pump Pressure Test Checking the Oil Pump Relief Pressure
OIL PUMP PRESSURE TEST CHECKING THE OIL PUMP RELIEF PRESSURE
OIL PUMP PRESSURE TEST CHECKING THE OIL PUMP RELIEF PRESSURE
1. Disconnect the pressure hose from the oil pump, and then connect the special tools.
2. Bleed the air, and then turn the steering wheel several times while the vehicle is not moving so that the temperature of the fluid rises to approximately 50 - 60°C (122 - 140°F).
3. Start the engine and idle it at 1,000 ± 100 rpm.

Pic 1

4. Fully close the shut-off valve of the pressure gauge and measure the oil pump relief pressure to confirm that it is within the standard value range.
Standard value: 89 - 95 kg/cm2 (1,265 - 1,351 psi)

CAUTION: Pressure gauge shut off valve must not remain closed for more than 10 seconds.

5. If it is not within the standard value, replace the oil pump.
6. Remove the special tools, and then tighten the pressure hose to the specified torque.
Tightening Torque: 55 - 65 Nm (5.5 - 6.5 kg-m, 39 - 47 ft. Lbs.)
7. Bleed the system.

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Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions.

Joe

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