JDizzle

My PS pump was making the loud grinding noise for some time. Dealer and local repair shop said air was leaking in I needed a new pump, reservoir and one hose. They were replaced two months ago and everything seemed fine. Recently the pump noise started coming back. After driving 5-10 miles the sound would come back when making turns. After stopping the engine, the reservoir would foam up and overflow. After sitting long enough, all would be fine until it got bubbled up again the next time.

Dealer now says I need a new steering rack because some part in it that lets the air out isn't working.

You can see lots or turbulence in the reservoir when the engine is running. An old reliable mechanic looked at it and thought the problem was the restrictor but we could not find it on any of the hoses. Where is the restrictor on a 2002 Ford Windstar? Is it actaully part of the rack? Or is it hidden somehere not obvious and I can avoid paying $800 for a rack to fix a check valve?

CatSkinner

I can't find anyone who sells it, either. BUT, RockAuto has the entire rack assembly for under $200.