I replaced the power steering unit with a new one on my 2000 Dodge 2500 (everything still stock and 134000 miles). The reason for changing was that the steering got REALLY heavy...but after changing the unit out for a new one, the issue stayed the same. The brakes still work but I still have no power steering-it's VERY heavy...fluid level is fine and I did bleed system. This does lead me to believe it is now tied to the steering box. I have heard about collasped return line to the pump. I do not have any means of testing the pressure out from the booster to the steering gear. Anyone have any experience with the valving in the booster section? Any recommendations as to where I might get another steering box that won't cost me a small fortune? Can these be re-built? If so, where could I find a kit?

__________________

 

Connect the pressure line from the pump directly to the p\s box to test the pump output

 

Would that also rule out the selector valve in the booster side then? Will this damage the steering gear? Gonna put a new booster to gear hose on to see if that works.

 

Pressure and volume is essentially straight thru the 'booster to the steering box - 'booster only taps off as needed.

Direct-connect test will not damage steering box, eliminates 'booster as problematical.

If steering is still difficult it's the pump

If steering becomes easy it's the 'booster

 

What about if both still give bad results? What about the valving in the steering gear? Anyone know if theirs has ever gone bad before? I will start as suggested here and bypass the booster.

 

Appears to me to be a bit too much prognostification and procrastinatin' goin' on here, John

Troubleshooting is a process of elimination - butcha gotta get started somewhere for it to work, right?

The hi-pressure fittings on the ps gearbox and the 'booster are identical - just remove the pressure hose from the gearbox, put the pressure hose that goes from the pump to the 'booster, in the gearbox, and try it.

Remember - don't try to drive it, just turn the wheels side to side, once you've checked the reservoir for full.