Hey guys: I'm new to the forum. I have a 97 Camaro RS (3.8L, M5) which I bought a little less than a year ago, and it's a great car. A couple days ago, though, started to hear a whine that was associated with engine speed, and my friend and I figured out it was coming from the power steering pump. Checked the reservoir, and the fluid was a bit low (I'll admit I never really checked it before then).
So I bought some generic power steering fluid, filled it up to about the "cold" line for starters, and the noise went away! Unfortunately, it returned for the next drive. Added a bit more, making sure not to overfill it, and the noise went away again (but shortly returned, sadly). Another thing I noticed: the fluid in the reservoir looked kind of "muddy." I feel like the next logical step would be to flush the entire PS system and add new fluid. Does anyone have any experience with this (or have another suggestion)?
Thanks!

 

Was the fluid low the second time you added to it? If so, you have a leak and, likely, need a new pump.

 

Check for leaks incl. the power steering pressure hose -- just had mine replaced -- leaking on my SS... Also note they make PS fluid with additives to help with PS noises like squeal... I would use this type of fluid and replace your existing fluid -- you can use a turkey baster to suck out the fluid from the reservoir, or a siphon pump... Check the service manual for a full flush process, as this will not get *all* the fluid.

 

Document ID# 662938
2002 Chevrolet Camaro
Flushing the Power Steering System


Important

Do not reuse any drained power steering fluid regardless of appearance or condition.

Turn off the engine.
Raise the front end of the vehicle off the ground until the tires and wheels turn freely. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
Place a large container under the fluid return hose in order to collect the draining fluid.
Remove the fluid return hose at the power steering pump reservoir inlet connection.
Plug the reservoir return hose inlet connection on the power steering pump.

Important

This step may require 4 L (4 qt) of power steering fluid until the draining fluid appears clear.
Do not run the engine without the power steering fluid level at FULL COLD.
Run the engine at idle while an assistant maintains the fluid level at FULL COLD in the reservoir using new approved power steering fluid.
Turn off the engine.
Turn the steering wheel fully to the left and to the right.
Remove the plug from the pump reservoir inlet connection.
Install the fluid return hose to the pump reservoir.
Maintain the fluid level at FULL COLD.
Operate the engine at idle for approximately 15 minutes.
Repeat steps 3-5.
Inspect the power steering fluid for the following indications of contamination:
Milky fluid - water
Brown fluid - burnt
Plastic debris or dirt chunks
If the fluid is contaminated, repeat steps 6-12 in order to complete a third flush.
Remove the plug from the pump reservoir inlet connection.
Install the fluid return hose to the pump reservoir.
Clean any spilled fluid.
Bleed the power steering system. Refer to Bleeding the Power Steering System
Document ID# 662938
2002 Chevrolet Camaro

 

Document ID# 487449
2002 Chevrolet Camaro
Bleeding the Power Steering System

Tools Required
J 35555 Metal Mityvac
J 43485 Power Steering Bleeder Adapter

Important

Hoses touching the frame, body, or engine may cause system noise.

Verify that the hoses do not touch any other part of the vehicle.

Important

Loose connections may not leak, but could allow air into the steering system.

Verify that all hose connections are tight.




Notice

If the power steering system has been serviced, an accurate fluid level reading cannot be obtained unless air is bled from the steering system. The air in the fluid may cause pump cavitation noise and may cause pump damage over a period of time.


Important

Maintain the fluid level throughout the bleed procedure.

Remove the pump reservoir cap.

Important

Use clean, new power steering fluid only.

Fill the pump reservoir with fluid to the FULL COLD level.



Attach the J 43485 to the J 35555 or equivalent.
Place the J 43485 on or in the pump reservoir filler neck.
Apply a vacuum of 68 kPa (20 in Hg) maximum.
Wait 5 minutes.
Typical vacuum drop is 7-10 kPa (2-3 in Hg). If the vacuum does not remain steady, refer to Excessive Vacuum Drop Diagnosis at the end of this procedure.
Remove the J 43485 and the J 35555 .
Reinstall the pump reservoir cap.
Start the engine. Allow the engine to idle.
Turn off the engine.
Verify the fluid level. Repeat steps 11-13 until the fluid stabilizes.

Important

Do not turn steering wheel to lock.

Start the engine. Allow the engine to idle.
Turn the steering wheel 180-360 degrees in both directions 5 times.
Switch the ignition off.

Notice

When adding fluid or making a complete fluid change, always use the proper power steering fluid. Failure to use the proper fluid will cause hose and seal damage and fluid leaks.

Verify the fluid level.



Remove the pump reservoir cap.



Attach the J 43485 to the J 35555 or equivalent.
Place the J 43485 on or in the pump reservoir filler neck.
Apply a vacuum of 68 kPa (20 in Hg) maximum.
Wait 5 minutes.
Remove the J 43485 and the J 35555 .
Verify the fluid level.



Reinstall the pump reservoir cap.
Excessive Vacuum Drop Diagnosis




If the vacuum continues to drop, remove the pressure and return hose from the pump.
Install the plugs (1,2) supplied with the J 43485 into the pressure and return port.



Attach the J 43485 to the J 35555 or equivalent.
Place the J 43485 on or in the pump reservoir filler neck.
Apply a vacuum of 68 kPa (20 in Hg) maximum.
If the vacuum drops again, repair or replace the pump. If the vacuum holds steady, continue to check the other parts of the steering system.

Important

Fluid must be free from bubbles and foam. Be aware of periodic bubbles that indicate a loose connection or leaking O-ring seal in the return hose or the pressure hose.

Fluid must be free from discoloration.

Observe the fluid.
If condition persists, replace the following parts:
The return hose clamps
The return hose O-rings
The pressure hose O-rings
The gear cylinder line O-rings
The reservoir to pump O-ring
Repeat the bleed procedure from the beginning.
Drive the vehicle approximately 16 km (10 mi) in order to warm the system to operating temperature. Evaluate vehicle on a smooth flat surface.
Verify the following conditions:
There is smooth power assist.
The vehicle operates quietly.
The pump maintains the proper fluid level.
There is not any leaking in the steering system.
The fluid is free of foam or discoloration.
Document ID# 487449
2002 Chevrolet Camaro

 

Thanks for the help! Did the whole turkey baster/additive trick (used the Lucas stuff), and the whine went away after a few days.