Power Steering Noise

[Rabs]

Hi,

I have a 90 H 325i Convertible that has some interesting noises when turning the steering wheel when stationery. It started off that it was only on full lock but now it is there at various stages of turning the steering wheel. The noise is a high pitched squealing noise. Also as it has got worse when I am close to reaching full lock when turning steering wheel it feels like it is knocking or pulling away from the direction you are turning. Any ideas what this could be?

Thanks

[Morat]

Check your power steering fluid level. It's the small round reservoir with a knurled lid that says ATF Only on it. The dipstick is built into the lid.
ATF should be the colour of cherryade - not black and full of bubbles.

[Rabs]

Yep looked at that...its definitely not the colour of cherryade. So will changing that sort it do you think?

[Brianmoooore]

Yep looked at that...its definitely not the colour of cherryade. So will changing that sort it do you think?

Probably would have - if you'd changed it a couple of years ago. Now, it might, if you're lucky.
Check the tension/condition of the belt to the pump as well.

[Rabs]

Thanks will do both

[Brianmoooore]

To change the fluid effectively, you'll need to do it around three times to completely flush out the old stuff.

[Rabs]

Looked at the belt and the tension is incorrect can push in about half an inch. Is it easy to change the belt? Didn't find anything on the wiki....only info on changing the fluid. If I change for new belt I would also change the fluid....it's a dark grey/black colour so defo looks past it sell by date. And advice on changing belt? Thanks in advance.

[Brianmoooore]

Changing the steering belt is very similar to changing the alternator/fan belt, but a little harder to get at, so try looking in the wiki for info. on that.

[Grrrmachine]

http://www.e30zone.net/e30zonewiki/inde ... ging_Belts

[G-Bear]

Check on the dipstick morat mentioned, that fluids are at a sufficient levels too. They get noisey when there's not enough fluid in there. If it appears low, the steering rack might be leaking. To check for this get under the car and pull the rubber boots back(secured with jubilee clips) that cover the connecting points of the rack and track rods. If fluid is in the boots, then the racks leaking and you need to source a replacement. Cheap enough second hand. Although E30 racks are known for leaking so might be a good opportunity for an upgrade

[Jos]

Can also leak from the bottom of the reservoir, then run down the hoses and make it look like it's a rack/banjo leak so check there too.