Power steering problem

[am]

I have a 71 with a 302 and I have had a leak in my what appears my return valve which I have just filled. This morning my belt popped off and it had a small tear. After getting a new belt I am having an awful squeal when I turn the tires. The leaks still doesn't appear stopped either. Any thoughts?? Thanks for the help! The belts appear to have teeth in the V vs what I am replacing which was much more smooth.

 

[thegreatjustino]

V-belts come in different widths. A too small width will sit low in the pulley and you'll never be able to tighten it enough to get the squealing to stop. You need a belt that sits flush with the top of the pulley, or just slightly above it.

I had this problem with an alternator belt. The store kept selling me the one their computer showed, it squealed, I would tighten the snot out of it, the belt would break, and I'd be back at square one. I finally took the power steering belt in and told them I needed one that thick in the correct length for the alternator. Squealing problem fixed.

Smooth belt vs. teeth is just the manufacturer as far as I know. Shouldn't make any difference as long as you have the correct length and width.

Where is the leak coming from? At the box, you could try snugging the fitting down a bit. At the pump, it's just a hose clamp. Tighten a little more or look to see if the hose clamp has cut into the hose causing the leak.

 

[Broncobowsher]

Another thought, if the pump bracket is loose or missing parts it can flex. Flexing can lead to lost tension (belt squeal) and mis-alignment (tossed belt). Make sure the pump brackets are all present and tight. Pump shouldn't be able to flop around.

 

[DirtDonk]

And welcome to classicbroncos too by the way am!

Paul