General Steering Hum

[jungle skunk]

I've only had this 1999 weekend 1.6 for 2 months but already I've had more big and niggley problems than any other car. Should have bought an Alfa!!

Just got back from work pulling onto drive and I hear a loud humming/ grinding which is coming from the steering. Slightest bit of pressure put on steering wheel it starts then stops as soon as you stop turning

Anyone got any ideas

Rob

 

[jungle skunk]

Had a chance to look now and trans. fluid is very low. Don't know why- cant see any obvious leaks but I only have torch. Removed some of remaining fluid and it looks 'dirty' still got redish tinge but looks darker/cloudyer than new trans fluid I have.

The trans fluid I have is Castrol automatic TQ-D is this OK to mix with fluid in reservoir. The handbook says DEXRON II. But the Castrol stuff is DEXRON II-D.
Is the D important?

Can you help

Rob

 

[jug]

that fluid will be fine to mix with Dexron II-E, Dexron II-D, Dexron II, Type A, Allison C-4, C-3, Caterpillar TO-2, Ford “CJ & H” fluids (inc M2C138-CJ and M2C166-H).

 

[mountainmachine]

that fluid will be fine to mix with Dexron II-E, Dexron II-D, Dexron II, Type A, Allison C-4, C-3, Caterpillar TO-2, Ford “CJ & H” fluids (inc M2C138-CJ and M2C166-H).

Ahh the fountain of knowledge!

 

[jungle skunk]

Thanks Jug. Added it before your reply after bit of research on web. I found a very small leak just behind passenger headlight area on union between flexi hose and metal pipework that runs in front of rad. (the transmission fluids own rad I suppose)

 

[mountainmachine]

Yea a cooling loop most likely. You get that fixed up? The leak that is?

 

[sumplug]

Take a look at the PAS fluid. it maybe a little low and causing the humming. Also check the PAS belt tension and condition as this can do it if its wrongly tensioned.

Andy.