Steering noise

[alexward]

Evening all.
Its the first gripe I have with my new C70 T5!
I've checked the power steering fluid and there's loads. Its full, but when I turn the steering wheel, it makes a kind of a whirring noise, almost like the rack is rubbing on something. Its not a loud noise.
Any ideas what this could be and how do I get rid.
Many thanks.

[tarmacsurfer]

What colour is the fluid? It should be a nice red colour, not brown. I assume you have the whirring noise when turning the wheel all the time? Not just at the lock stops...

[alexward]

Originally Posted by tarmacsurfer

What colour is the fluid? It should be a nice red colour, not brown. I assume you have the whirring noise when turning the wheel all the time? Not just at the lock stops...

You assume correctly mate. Its when turning the wheel. It doesn't make a noise on full lock.
I did look at the oil briefly, and it was more brown than red.

[tarmacsurfer]

Check for leaks on the rack and I would change the fluid too.

[alexward]

Originally Posted by tarmacsurfer

Check for leaks on the rack and I would change the fluid too.

How would I check the rack for leaks? Whereabouts would I look and would it be obvious?
Thanks.

[tarmacsurfer]

Check around the gaitors on each side leading to the tracking arms and at the point where the steering from inside the car joins the rack (mine leaks there) I have fitted a Magnefine filter inline with the power steering fluid reservoir. See here for info http://www.magnefine.com/ helps a lot and has reduced the fluid loss to a minimum. I emptied the reservoir using a pump top from a soap dispenser (clean it out properly obviously). Refill and work the steering slowly from from side to side to release trapped air. check the level again and work it again. Check again and bob such be your uncle...

[alexward]

Originally Posted by tarmacsurfer

Check around the gaitors on each side leading to the tracking arms and at the point where the steering from inside the car joins the rack (mine leaks there) I have fitted a Magnefine filter inline with the power steering fluid reservoir. See here for info http://www.magnefine.com/ helps a lot and has reduced the fluid loss to a minimum. I emptied the reservoir using a pump top from a soap dispenser (clean it out properly obviously). Refill and work the steering slowly from from side to side to release trapped air. check the level again and work it again. Check again and bob such be your uncle...

Brilliant. Thanks for the info mate.