Alas, my power steering pump failed. I've made numerous attempts to rebuild what I have. but nothing with any consistency is working.
I have removed the reservoir and cleaned the screen, then tested flow with a garden hose. It's fine.
Flow control valve travels easily in the chamber and is spotless. I even opened it up and checked the ball and seat. Fine.
Using a power steering pressure tester I have isolated the issue to the pump.

But my question.
If any of you have replaced your pump which brand did you get and have you been happy with it.?
Lares, BBB, Maval, etc.

 

On my 86 2WD- Don't know the brand, but it was a free replacement pump for the previous lifetime warranty pump from Advanced Auto back on 5-2012. It now has 85K on it with no issues. Anything rebuilt from a local auto parts store I go lifetime if available. My PSP is up top and easy access to replacing often if needed is not an issue, like the alternator.

FIO: I tried 3 aftermarket PS gears from three dfferent manufacturers and none of those units input shaft would fit the rag joint coupler. Bought used OEM for 1/2 the price shipped from WA and slipped in like a glove. No leaks so far in 8 years.

 

I did consider that. Believe me, I've gotten quite good at R&Ring a p/s pump right about now.
The chain stores have VERY limited options, and none will have the part delivered to the store, has to be shipped to the house.(so adds shipping costs)
Not sure if I can return core to the store. Shipping a core at your expense it almost a waste of time and effort.

 

Agree on the core. If it has a core, I pass on them unless the core cost and unit cost are still cheaper. I eat the corr and have a spare to rebuild. I learned to get lifetime on alternators on car parts store alternators. They are crap and last maybe 5 years max. The added cost is like $10. Same unit, but that's for the insurance- LOL. Last one I bought, I went OEM Toyota "Rebuilt." I think it's a Denso. Now 5 years and still going strong. I try to buy Denso, Aisin, or Bosch aftermarket if OEM is not available or at rape level high prices. Centric (makes Stoptech) for brakes, but OEM Toyota pads/shoes. It amazes me how many OEM oyotas new parts from dealers are still available. Got motor mounts with steel brackets, as read the aftermarket ones are crap and not correct height. One of my 6 Spring/Summer jobs to install them.

 

Sorry I can't answer your power steering pump question. Mine never failed and two had over 450K miles. A good reason to go OEM if the replacements last as long I guess. I usually look up the OEM or Denso number and google for best price with shipping. I often find OEM parts available on Amazon or even Walmart of all places with free shipping and I never had to return a core. Maybe worth a try? Both have good return policies.

Another option that surprised me on OEM parts was my local dealership. If I go to the counter and order the parts they are full list price plus shipping. If I order from them online and go to the same counter to pick it up it is less than full price and no shipping. And then they send me discount codes for my future orders.

Good luck with it.

 

I struck out on oem, per se.
But individual parts are available. Ordering from USA dealer is cost prohibitive, but through an importer like Amayama not so bad.
I ordered a Lares p/s pump to get me by, but I'd really like to have oem. The pressure test results directed attention to the vanes. I had measured those, and they're fine, but i suspect the cog they ride in is out of spec

 

Have you thought of online salvage search for OEM unit? Been pleased with my salavaged PS gear as no issues in 8 years.

 

Yes, and no.
I have a running list of parts i look for when I go to a "pick your part" salvage yard.
The pricing is substantially better, when I can find what i need.