Power Steering Pumps & Parts

The main parts of a hydraulic power steering system are the control valve that directs fluid pressure in response to the direction the steering wheel is turned, a piston and hydraulic cylinder that apply the pressure to the steering linkage to provide power assist for the driver, and the engine mounted pump that generates the fluid pressure. The control valve and piston/hydraulic cylinder are integral components of the rack & pinion steering gear and most conventional worm gear recirculating ball steering boxes, but there are also linkage systems that are used in conjunction with a manual recirculating ball steering box, where the control valve is mounted on the end of the center link, and the piston/hydraulic cylinder attach at the center link and vehicle frame.

The power steering pump is driven by the crankshaft via a V-belt or serpentine belt. The fluid reservoir can be integral with the pump or mounted remotely and connected to the pump with a hose. A high-pressure hydraulic hose conducts fluid pressure from the pump to the control valve, with another hose returning fluid to the pump. The high-pressure fluid hose is attached with fittings at each end, while the low-pressure return hose may just be secured at each end with clamps. When the vehicle is driven straight ahead and the steering wheel is centered, the control valve applies equal pressure to both sides of the hydraulic cylinder piston. When the steering wheel is turned, the control valve directs fluid pressure to one side of the piston, providing power assist in the direction of the turn.

Common power steering problems include leaks, noise, lack of power assist when parked and at low speeds, and overly sensitive, over-boosted steering at highway speeds. Inspect the steering gear hoses, steering gear and power steering pump for leaks. If the pump is leaking it should be rebuilt or replaced. A squealing noise could indicate a loose or worn power steering belt and/or worn belt tensioner, and this condition could also result in an intermittent lack of steering assist. Whining noise could be caused by low fluid level or it may be an indication of a failing power steering pump if the fluid level is OK. If you find that increased effort is needed to turn the wheel when parked and at low speeds, the pump could be failing and need replacement. Check pump output pressure with a suitable gauge and compare with factory specifications to determine power steering pump performance.

While power steering was embraced by most drivers, it was not well-received by many car enthusiasts who felt that it resulted in overly sensitive steering and poor road feel at higher driving speeds. In response to this, manufacturers “tuned” power steering systems to provide more assist on standard and luxury vehicles and less on performance models. This became much easier to achieve with the advent of electronic systems that use input from the vehicle speed sensor and a steering wheel rotation sensor provided to an electronic controller, which in turn manipulates a control valve in the power steering pump to vary output flow. If there is a lack of assist or over-assist at all vehicle speeds on vehicles with electronic systems, diagnosis with a scan tool should be performed before the pump is condemned.

No matter what your repair or upgrade needs are or what you’re working on, we have the power steering pump and related components to restore safe, predictable, and easy power steering system operation without leaks. We offer power steering pumps that are manufactured to original equipment specifications. We also have seals, bearings, and rebuild kits if you want to tackle repairing or overhauling the steering pump assembly yourself. In addition, we offer pulleys, mounts, brackets, bushings, reservoir caps, fittings, hardware, and more. And any time a steering system component is replaced, the system should be properly flushed and one of our in-line filters installed to ensure only clean fluid enters the pump.

Whether you need to make your car more responsive to your input, reduce steering effort, or want to take advantage of the benefits of a modern steering system while driving your classic car, we have you covered. In our selection, you'll find numerous kits and upgrades, from advanced steering conversions to those that require little or no modification for ease of installation. All products on offer, including performance power steering pumps, come from reliable manufacturers that never skimp on the quality of components and materials they use in the manufacturing process. With us, it's easy to get the parts that will make your car perform to its maximum potential.