Noise from steering(?)

[montanatx]

Hiya,

I need some help please.I've a 2004 Skoda Superb Elegance, 1.9 Tdi. When stationary, or at low speeds e.g. parking, and the steering is on full lock (either way) there's a rapid clicking/rattling noise. I suspect it's from the steering pump, as the noise seems to come from low down on the left of the engine. But I need the advice of more the experienced. I checked and topped up the steering fluid (not that it really needed it) but the noise is still there. Any advice please?

 

[MilanM]

I will follow this topic, but IMHO its steering pump.

[rotodiesel]

First check the alternator freewheeling pulley. In 90% of cases, this is responsible. On full lock, there is more stress on the auxiliary drive and a seized alternator pulley will cause it to oscillate - hence the noise. Holding a hydraulically assisted steer system on full lock is not good for the drive.

 

rotodiesel.

[Tech1e]

As above, I would expect the alternator pulley has seized.

[montanatx]

Many thanks for your replies, gentlemen. Tech1e,the pulley you speak of. Is it the one actually ON the alternator or the tensioner pulley (freewheeling pulley) mentioned by rotodiesel? In in both cases the pulleys are rotating. So how do I free them off? Please forgive my ignorance.

[rotodiesel]

The pulley most likely to be causing your problem is on the alternator. It contains a sprag clutch so that it drives the alternator in one direction only. If this seizes, the whole auxiliary drive system will oscillate and can be damaged.

 

To change the alternator pulley, lever off the plastic cap and insert a 33 (from memory) splined tool to engage with the ring nut. Use a long triple-square or torx bit (depending on Bosch or Valeo alternator) to hold the shaft. The ring nut has a right hand thread and can be unscrewed whilst holding the shaft. Alternatively, hold the ring nut and turn the shaft clockwise to unscrew.

 

These are usually gorilla tight - better to use a rattle gun on the ring nut.

 

rotodiesel.

[montanatx]

Sadly, this definitely a Garage job. I don't have the tools or a garage to do it myself. However,thank you very much for the explanation rotodeisel. Much appreciated.