Replacing the power steering pump

[Don in VT]

Hi All,

I going to replace my power steering pump on our 90 ZR. I have searched the forum, Solutions and have read the FSM. His anyone documented the R and R of the PS pump and would be willing to share any tips especially on how you get the serp belt pulley lined up. On occasion the FSM gives directions on how to do a procedure when other techs have come up with shortcuts and better ways to do the job. I am using the R and R of the rear wheel bearings as an example of the FSM procedure not being the best way to do the job.

Best Regards

Don in VT

[VetteMed]

Hi Don.

From my recollection:

Drain cooling system
Remove upper radiator hose
Remove plenum
I think you need to remove the LH side coolant outlet pipe, but I'm not sure now.
remove alternator
unbolt AC compressor

Use pulley puller to remove PS pulley.

After the pulley is removed, you can remove the hose/line connections from the pump.
Then, there's 6 bolts. 3 hold the pump to the bracket, 3 hold the bracket to the cylinder head. they are 10mm heads.

Now is a good opportunity to replace your high pressure line. Most of the parts chain stores carry a replacement. I have an extra for a '90-91 if you are in need.

Installation is pretty much the reverse of removal :)
After the system is back together, engine running, turn wheels lock to lock slowly a few times, while the wheels are still off the ground, to help purge air from the system.

I probably left out some bits 'n pieces, but the meat & potatoes is there.

-Andrew

[tf95ZR1]

I replaced my PS pump some years ago so I'd
have to check, but I don't think you have to remove
the plenum/alternator/A/C.
And I got my new pump at my local auto parts store.
Good Luck!

PS I forgot to add: If you want to change your PS hoses,
just take your old hoses to a hose shop and have them
replace the rubber with braided SS. It looks cool, and
mine was maybe $20 a hose.

[VetteMed]

I replaced my PS pump some years ago so I'd
have to check, but I don't think you have to remove
the plenum/alternator/A/C.
And I got my new pump at my local auto parts store.
Good Luck!

It may be possible without removing that stuff. I sort of recall there being difficulty accessing the bolts to remove the pump or the bracket, with the AC compressor in place. I already had the plenum off for another job, so it was a moot point in my situation.

The pump itself is easy to obtain, I think it's the same as many other cars. It's just the reservoir that is ZR-1 specific.

[batchman]

When we started autocrossing the ZR-1 we had a lot of trouble with the PS. First belt & tensioner, helped some. Then we switched to a quick rack and the problems were worse. Added a larger plate style cooler and improved but not enough. Switched to Red Line PS fluid and again improved but not enough.

Our final solution came from getting a ZR-1 pump rebuilt by Turn One. No more problems, period. About the cheapest insurance I've found for a ZR-1. Also, we did not have to pull the plenum (a job I still fear - in this crowd I am a wimp) or A/C.

Best,
- Jeff

[VetteMed]

So there you have it, plenum pull not likely to be required :)

I also forgot to answer your question about the alignment of the pulley.

When installing the pulley, the end of the pump shaft should be even with the flat front end of the pulley hub. That will give you the appropriate alignment of the pulleys.