Powers Steering Pump On Its Way Out? St185

[sweatyfox]

Over the past few days I have noticed a loud wirring/whining noise coming from under the bonnet when I turn the steering wheel. Sounds a bit like a milkfloat. Its not that noticeable when theres no load on the steering, just when im stationary and I steer.

Also If I hold the steering wheel about half a turn to the left to get it to make the noise, it almost pulses through the steering wheel, as does the noise.

It seems to be getting worse too. Im guessing the power steering pump is about to die?

How easy is it to change pump? easy job or nightmare?

Will any other celica steering pumps fit? or does it have to be a 5th Gen or ST185 one?

Cheers.

[mikeb]

Don't turn the steering whilst stationary then. I know we all do it sometimes, but it puts loads of unecessary stress through the steering.

Have you checked fluid level and belt tension? I think the pumps are a weak point on these cars - one of the seals is leaking on mne. They shouldn't be too hard to change though, but access is a bit fiddly. There are probably pumps from loads of other toyota's that fit (at a guess most of the ones with a 3s engine except the MR2), but it's probably easier just to get one from TCB (£50 to £75 I think), or get your current one reconditioned.