Whine = Power Steering Pump?

[PathyPop]

2003 with 125k miles.

I've got a constant whine from the passenger side I'm trying to trouble shoot. The sound changes with engine speed but not while steering hard left/right. I put a pipe to my ear on the pump, idler bracket and alternator and they all sound the same. I pulled the belt and the whine went away telling me it is either the alternator, idler, pump or fan. All turn freely without any resistance or in/out play except the pump. I have maybe almost 1mm off play when I pull/push it. Could this still be normal? Everything works ok, just want to prevent a problem. I have receipts from prior owner and none of these items appear to have ever been replaced.

thanks,

[Blindaviator]

I had a similar whine in mine a while back and I thought it was the PS pump like you. Turned out to be the Alternator so your chances are 50/50 on which it is. Usually if it's the PS pump it will change in pitch with wheel movement.

[PathyPop]

Yup. Happily it turned out to be the idler pulley after all. After I posted I pulled it off since it was easy with the belt off anyway and path of least cost. I didn't seem bad in my hand and it had no play, but I spun it with some compressed air and it made noise.

I got a new one at Pep Boys for $32. They beat out the Autozone's, etc because even though they have about the same price they give a 25% off code if you order online (not pay) and then go pick it up. Second time in two months I've done this. I used to skip Pep Boys because they became more of a toy store selling bikes, go carts, scooters, other crap, etc.

Glad it's not the alternator. Looks like dynamite is needed to get that thing out.

[Blindaviator]

Glad it's not the alternator. Looks like dynamite is needed to get that thing out.

Yeah it is a bugger to get out the first time but it gets easier. Just keep in mind if you have to replace it the easiest way is to take the PS pump loose and push it to the side otherwise it's nearly impossible to get to the bolts on the back side.