What's up ORg.

I need a little help. Lately I been noticing when I turn the wheel all the way to the left I hear a kind of squeak or whinning sound coming from the passanger side. I don't know if this is an indication that my axle might need changing and I am a little unscertain. I have a 97' with 125k. Should I be alarmed or is that just age?

Thanks

 

It could be the tires or the power steering pump. Axles don't typically squeak (as far as I know).

 

was it on seal coated asphalt? tires squeal when pressure is low on seal coat
(crappy answer i know)

 

Its not the asphalt b/c I been hearing it on various types of pavements. This incident has been happening more than once. I hear it whenever I'm parralel parking, especially on the left side of the street. It might be the power steering pump, but its sutle. Not like the steering pump is crying for mercy. I'm going to change my oil tomorrow and take a look if I see anything out of the ordinary and put some more steering fluid in.

 

your P.S. belt might be needing a change

 

sounds like a power steering belt.

 

I had same problem with that on my 3rd gen. Tightned up Power Steering belt and that fixed problem.

 

Interesting. I haven't changed the belts yet on the car. I'm going to change them this weekend and hope it goes away. Plus I think those belts are the original and don't want to be stuck in the cold weather freezing my fingers. Thanks again.

 

Another quick question. Does it matter if I get OEM belts or aftermarket belts? Does one last longer than another. Material composites?

 

No doesn't matter. OEM ones are so cheap - 15 bucks - you can get aftermarket for < $10, but I stuck with OEM since the price difference was so small. I've read good things about Gates' belts.

 

I looked up through the threads how to replace the belts but I still have a question. Does anyone know the size of the nut to loosen the power steering pump pulley to get the belt off and what tools would be ideal. I.e. Breaker bar, size socket.