I just installed a rebuilt power steering pump on my 73 mav about a month ago and also replaced the control valve since it was out of commission as well. The pump is whining more than usual and the fluid level is where it's supposed to be. There are no leaks and the power steering is working fine. Just concerned about the noise. Are these model fords bad about the noise or do I need to return/replace the pump? Thanks
Shouldn't be whining at all. I would take it back. How does the fluid look and what kind of fluid are you using?
It's a long shot since it has been running for a while, but it may have air in the system. I made a vacuum adapter out of a conical rubber plug from the hardware store by drilling a hole in the center all the way through and attaching a rubber hose long enough to attach to the vacuum port under the carb. Put the plug end into the fill tube on the pump and use pliers to pinch it off and release it to use engine vacuum to pull the air out of the system. Just have to be careful not to pull fluid into the engine. A container that is rated for vacuum (like the ones used for vacuum bleeding brakes) can be used to prevent fluid from reaching the engine if it becomes a problem.
The fluid I used was power steering fluid. It was clear. I've always used regular transmission fluid in the past for the power steering and don't recall any problems. If I remember correctly, I checked the level and it was still good but I think the color had turned a milky darker color. I did turn the wheel lock-to-lock to remove the air from the system. Should I drain the system and replace with type "F" trans fluid?
If the pump is a stock replacement, you should use type F fluid! That " power steering " fluid is not suitable for our cars! I even use type F fluid in my Ranger's power steering. It works better, the leaks have stopped, and the whine is almost non existent!
replacing the fluid Is there a specific procedure in bleeding and flushing the system? I'm just hoping that the pump isn't damaged but if it is, I'll just replace it. They're not that expensive.
I'm going to replace the pump. It seems to work fine till the fluid warms up and then the whining starts up real bad.