Has anyone replaced powering steering pump at 85k, or can it be rebuilt with simple tools? Mine has developed a whiny noise recently, especially audible when accelerating. There is nothing unusual while steering. I removed the accessory belt and found the pulley rotated smoothly. I wonder if a new set of bearing is needed at this time and if it comes with the purchase of a new pulley. Any remedial suggestion is appreciated.
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'96 960 85K

the fluid probably has air in it. i doubt the bearings are shot. when pumps fail, it's usually leaks. just drive it, perhaps it'll bleed out. the 960 pumps seem to be the worst for the whining. good luck, chuck.

Following the suggestion from the board, I've been replacing the fluid in the reservoir with Mobil1 ATF annually. A power steering pump with only 85k miles lifespan is just not acceptable. When I look into the reservoir with engine running, the fluid seems to be standing still. Is that the way it should be?
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'96 960 85K

i have no experience with mobil 1.

does the car steer ok? then the pump's working.
have someone steer the wheel while you look into the resevoir. you should see some fluid movement.

i have never replaced a pump on a 960. i've seen plenty past 85k. i have seen a fluid change quiet noisy pumps, with power steering fluid. i suspect if you change the pump, the problem will remain. good luck, chuck.

Thanks Chuck! I'll do a fluid change again this weekend to see if it helps.
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'96 960 85K

At the time my pump started to leak there was a refurbish kit available from Volvo for the pump parts. Also the front ball bearing was available, but the rear needle roller bearing was not. You will need a strong three legged puller to remove the pulley. Should you need to replace the needle bearing, and you can source it, a blind hole puller is necessary.
In my case the axle was worn by the seal causing the leak so I ended up buing a used pump. It's been running for about 170 kmiles/7 years by now without problems. Original pump lasted only about 60 kmiles.
Oh, and you'll need flared nut wrenches for the plumbing, or a pipe wrench.

Good luck,
mike

Thanks for your advice. I guess I'll see some leaking fluid around the pump pretty soon. A used pump might be a better bet for me as I do not have the tools you've mentioned. I replaced a squeaky idler pulley 2 months ago. Now it is the whiny power steering pump. I just wonder what will be the next.
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'96 960 85K