87 4kcsq Power steering pump failure? (Nolan Gilliam)

[Huw Powell]

> Yesterday, my oxygen sensor, battery, and brake warning lights
> started fading in and out. The PSP is whining but its still
> functioning. ATF fluid is full. The warning lights fading in and out
> reminded me of what happened when my alternator when out but its been
> replaced as well as the voltage regulator. Volt meter is reading good
> volts, 13-14.  I really don't think the alternator is the culprit
> because electrically, the car is operating perfectly and idles at
> 950rpm steadily.  V-belts are spinning properly to both the
> alternator and the power steering pump, but there is definetly an 
> audible noise, which im pretty sure is coming from the PSP, (hard to
> be sure with my head in the engine bay while its running).

Get a stethoscope (or long screwdriver) and give it a more careful
listen.  The symptoms scream alternator/VR/brushes, except for the "good
voltage" part.

> Why would the Power steering pump trip these warning lights?

It wouldn't/couldn't.  The PS system is completely independent of any
electronics on your car.

> The lights illuminate when I accelerate, not at idle.

Once when my brushes were worn down I had to drive home under 2000 or so
rpm, anything above that and my voltage would drop.

If you can, try hooking up an analog voltage meter where you can see it
while driving, the LED one in your car might not be telling you everything.

Even though the alternator/VR is young, it might still be the problem.
Also carefully check the little blue wire going to it.

-- 
Huw Powell

http://www.humanspeakers.com/audi

http://www.humanthoughts.org/