My 97 850 2.4 engine non turbo, with 146,000 miles. Power steering pump makes noise which does not vary with increase of RPM's or turning of the steering wheel. I replaced the pump and still have the same noise. Any suggestions?

 

Are you sure it's the power steering pump? Have you started the car with the serpentine belt off?

 

Yes, I ran the engine without the belt on and had no noise. I put a rebuilt pump on from Napa and it made the same noise as the original pump. I received a second pump from Napa and still have the same noise. The noise is constant regardless of the engine RPM's or the position of the steering wheel

 

Are you only getting the noise when you turn the wheel or is it constant?

If its constant have you checked your belt tensioner?
If its only when you turn the wheel have you flushed out all the old fluid out of the rack? You may have an air bubble in your PS system

 

The fluid is new, the noise is constant, the tentioning bearing is new. The problem has got to be in a pressure regulating valve, but I have no idea where in the system it is located. I do not have a shop manual. Thanks for the reply.

 

I had that exact same problem, even to the point where the mechanics at work told me it was the p/s pump. It turned out to be in the alternator. Changed that and bingo noise has gone. Such a quieter ride

 

Hi all, I am new to the forum and a new old Volvo owner. I am hearing a noise from the same area, sounds like a whirring noise - it reminds me of using those wire brushes in a drill to clean. I used my trusty screwdriver to listen for the noise and am pretty sure its in the alternator. My nephew had the car before me and said he just had the alternator changed because the battery wouldnt stay charged. Now I am thinking he got a badly rebuilt alternator. He stated the battery would drain overnight after using it. I fully charged the battery two days ago and have had no drainage. Havent checked for draw yet. But now I am leaning towards taking the alternator to the rebuild shop (I've used this guy for 20 years, very good and reputable). Anyways, loving this site so far, thanks for all the tips.

 

The noise was coming from the alternator. They are both on the same bracket and the noise was resonating through the bracket and because the power steering pump is hollow (reservoir) making the sound loudest in the pump. The back bearing was almost froze up causing the shaft to spin inside the inner race and it was worn about .025", causing the vibration. I went to Napa Auto Parts, and for $250 I got a rebuilt alternator, guaranteed for life. Now I can hear the engine again which is quiet.