Topic: 1966 Power Steering Control Valve

[bulldogg3151]

The power steering on my 1966 A-code just unexpectantly stopped working without any leaks or noises.Is this a control valve issue or something else ?? Would appreciate any input.Thanks

[CharlesTurner]

The pressure to the control valve is generated by the pump.  I'd start there.

[bulldogg3151]

How can I determine if pump is operational

[CharlesTurner]

How can I determine if pump is operational

Unless you have diagnostic tools, probably easiest to swap it out with a rebuilt or new unit.

I'm guessing you flushed out the fluid already and are using ATF?

[bryancobb]

Bulldogg,

You didn't mention your skill level.  If you are an average backyard mechanic, you could install a gauge in the pressure line and have a helper operate the gas pedal and steering wheel and follow the Ford shop manual instructions.

All the pubs I have read say that as the pump gets closer to needing rebuilt, the cam pack vanes start making noise.  I bought a reman'd one and swapped all the guts, cam-pack, and o-rings and seals into my original FoMoCo front housing and a new NOS resivoir can.

Make SURE it's filled with TYPE F transmission fluid.

[bulldogg3151]

I do not have a pressure gauge and my skill level is good enough to keep me out of trouble.Is there any easy way to tell if the pump is bad?

[CharlesTurner]

If the pump is not pumping fluid, it's bad.  Don't know of many methods to check other than an in-line pressure gauge or loosening the pressure line and running the pump.  If it was me, I would swap out the pump with a rebuilt or new one.  It may not be the cheapest component to rule out, but it's the easiest piece of the p/s system to replace.

[bulldogg3151]

Since it is the original Ford pump should it be sent to Rode's restoration?

[carlite65]

ha has always done all my work for me. great results and quick turnaround.