TowRig.com - Diesel Discussion and Tow Tech

Are there any known issues with the power steering pump in my 2001 Ram 2500 being weak?

I just wonder because I notice the PS is jerky when I make some quick inputs like during a 3 point turn...(mostly when the truck is cold... I dont think it happens as frequent when warmed).

I thought I checked the level properly, but I will re-check.

Anyone experience this?

Mine does the same thing... it kinda craps out when the engine is at idle. If you rev the engine a bit, it works fine. I'll bet it's just some dodge defect that all the trucks have.:rolleyes:

I haven't really experienced this with my automatic because the idle never drops below 900RPM's. I have with my dad's manual '02 and it's just a lack of PSI from the pump to power the steering box due to the pulley not turning enough RPM's. Our Chevy gas truck with a 5spd does it too at very low RPM's letting out on the clutch, thats all normal from what I know.

I haven't really heard of the pumps in the Dodges being weak. I would find it wierd for an auto truck to do it, but definantly a manual truck trying to turn and taking off at the same time.

My truck doesn't have any problems. I can steer as fast as I want right after starting on a cold morning or in the afternoon when it's 109*...

Well thanks, I'll re-check the fluid level... I have the auto tranny.

Have you checked the belts for glazing problems, and to see that they have the proper tension? I've seen a lot of vehicles do this, usually when the belts are glazed over and lose traction (especially when cold).

The Dodge with the Cummins engine does not use a belt driven power steering pump. They are driven from the back side of the gear housing at the front of the engine that is also coupled to the vacuum pump.
Check the rubber hoses for swelling and change the fluid with new.
Jack up the front end and try to turn the front wheels left to right by hand and listen for possably a dry ball joint or tie rod end. Also make sure you have the proper type of fluid in the power steering resivor.

If the PS fluid is over 3 yrs old you might try and change it to a good synthetic fluid like Valvoline puts out.