Power-Steering Noises
Q:I drive a 1998 Dodge Ram with the 5.2-liter V-8. When the engine's hot, the power steering hisses, even with slight turns. I've been told the cause is the power-steering box, which costs $1000 to replace.
A:If you're not confident with the diagnosis, get a second opinion. The steering gear (box) may very well cause a hissing noise on turns. Worn or defective valves within the gear may be responsible, but keep in mind all power-steering systems normally make a certain amount of noise. Sometimes, a poor seal between the steering column and the firewall can allow steering-gear noise to enter the cab, making it seem excessive. Assuming it's indeed too noisy, you have to narrow down its origin. An electronic listening device can help determine if it's the gear or the power-steering pump, but the latter tends to produce more of a moan or growl. Always be sure the pump is filled with the correct grade of clean fluid. Signs of bubbles or aeration in the fluid may be caused by a leak in a return line. Hoses making contact with other objects under the hood also can transmit excessive noise into the passenger compartment. The most common causes of excessive power-steering noise are low fluid levels or an internal pump failure.
Three Transmissions Down
Q:I bought a 1996 Dodge Ram 1500 in Miami in 1997 and had it shipped to Jamaica. Two years ago, the transmission began to squeal in overdrive. A local transmission shop suggested replacing it. I imported a remanufactured transmission, which lasted only about 15 miles. I imported a new unit, and it lasted three months. I just imported a used trans, and a different shop pointed out that an electrical connection on the transmission doesn't match the truck. There's an eight-pin plug on the transmission and a four-pin socket on the truck. Is there something missing or have I been sold the incorrect transmission three times? Dodge says my truck uses the 42RE.
How To Reach Alex
If you have a technical question regarding your pickup, SUV, or van, feel free to contact Alex, a master technician with the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. Send a letter to him in care of Truck Trend Garage, 6420 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90048, or e-mail us at trucktrend@primedia.com. Due to the volume of questions received every month, we cannot guarantee that everyone's question will be personally answered or will appear in the magazine. |
A:You wrote there was an eight-pin connector on the new transmission and a four-pin on the truck. Did you get that reversed? The 42RE is a four-speed automatic transmission, and the Dodge wiring schematic shows there should be an eight-pin connector linking the transmission solenoid assembly with the powertrain control module. The 42RE is partially electronically controlled; the PCM retrieves data and sends commands to the transmission to provide the third- to fourth-gear shift and torque-converter clutch operation. The eight-pin connector enables shifting plus additional functions you can't do without; a transmission with a connector that doesn't match isn't going to work. You may be trying to install a three-speed transmission into a truck set up for a four-speed, or vice versa. Send this one back, reconfirm what transmission you're dealing with, and get the right unit. Also, be absolutely sure there's no obstruction in the transmission cooler lines or in the radiator causing repeat failures.