-----Original Message-----
From: Mike Pedersen [mailto:mikeped@shaw.ca]
Sent: August 23, 2004 12:05 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Power Steering Pump Whine

My power steering pump sounds just like a mid-70's Ford pickup truck PS
pump.  Constantly whining...  The steering works fine and there are no leaks
in the system; except for slightly damp rack boot that has never manifested
an actual drop.  I have searched the archive and have found reference to
whining pumps with improper discharge lines (mine is original VW).  The PS
pump has some endplay float (not measured).  There are also details of the
rebuild kit (for leaky pumps).  My fluid is nice and red and remains red as
I have flushed it in the past with no apparent help.

Questions:

The dreaded PO has plugged a threaded hole on the end of the Banjo.  Is this
where the (nonexistant) PS pump idle up pressure sended is supposed to go?

Rebuild the pump or not.  I know list vendors have rebuild kits, but by the
time you get them across the border pay Shipping, PST, GST and Duty on them
it is not economical...

Replace the pump?  Any one got one out there?

Regards,

Mike Pedersen