fms

Hey I'm out in Montauk ,N.Y. and this is my first post. My 93 6 cyl 4runner is having problems with the power steering . Due to an increase in work I am unable to spend the necessary time to diagnose the issue ,so Ive taken it a mechanic.They have replaced the pump 4x from two different manufacturers stating that the pumps are defective . I've had bad parts before ,but 4 in a row ? The issue is always the same. It works fine for about 24hrs and then losses all fluid from reservoir. The squealing and hard steering starts and I'm hearing the same noise when I apply pressure to the brakes ? I'm thinking the fluid is some how going into my engine via vacuum line because around the time the fluid disappears I notice a 1x cloud of white smoke upon starting.
what am I missing ? Thanks very much !

timothy47129

there should be a vacuum idle up valve on the power steering pump.When you turn sharp it speeds up the idle.there is a diaphram in there and if it leaks it will suck fluid into the intake.Remove the 2 hoses and look for fluid in them.New pumps dont usally come with them so the shop is prob reusing the old one each time.which is why the problem is recurring type in ( Beware: Power Steering air control valve) in the search for this forum and you will see a good pic and a write up on it.