I'm getting a low pitch groan/whine when I turn the wheel (and yes the ps fluid is full) Most noticeable during slow speed parking maneuvers when the steering is strained and the wheels trying to turn. If the truck is stationary and I put some pressure on the steering wheel, but not enough to turn the wheels, the noise pops up. Any thoughts? Thanks.

 

A lot of toyotas have the power steering "whine" you mention...

How loud is it? Could just be a pump going out...I wouldnt worry about it unless it gets bad

 

yeah its just the power steering pump expressing its exasperation. just keep using it till it dies and then replace it, some of those things will whine like a banshee but still wont die for years and years.

 

yep- power steering pump.
If it's annoying you, try draining and replacing the fluid.

 

Yep....sometimes you have to replace the fluid, actually. It does wear out. Flush the system.....see if that helps.

(Abe....what the hell happened to interesting sig?)

 

thook- found out I work the most deadliest job in america so I'm re-evaluating my sig...

 

Drain and fill with Dextron lll AFT fluid. My old pump used to whine.. alot. It got bad and the pump pulley walked out and almost went into my rad...

Keep an eye on it, if it gets worse. Look for a used pump. Good ones can be had for under 50 bucks.

 

yeah, I guess someone should point out that groaning and whining from the steering pump means that the pump is vibrating.

 

Thanks for all the input. Its pretty annoying so I will try replacing the fluid and keep using it until it either quits completly or I go insane driving my truck.

 

anyone know how much atf I will need to re-fill the ps system? I see 400cc in the fsm, is that correct?

 

cant remember the quantity...its a few quarts though....I usually use Valvoline MaxLife

It could also be a leak somewhere in your system letting air into it.....double check that...air in the system can make it whine pretty bad...

Draining and refilling the system is really easy...shouldnt take more than ½-1 hour to do