Oil analysis

[JohnEd]

I searched this topic and came up with some really old stuff...probably good though.  My problem is with a power steering system on a CAR.  I had a pump start making noise a while back.  New it sells for $500.....Lexus.  The power was off a bit but OK except for that God awful noise that announced my arrival.  I mail ordered a "used" replacement that didn't cost me the price of a kidney and had it installed.  Worked for a day and a half but here is the rub.....it started out O)K and silent but rapidly deteriorated to power at all and I mean ARMSTRONG PS.  So here I sit with my brand new used pump and a note of apology.  Problem:  I don't like the way it failed and I have to suspect contamination.  If that's true my system is now contaminated and the new pump will just go bad quickly.  I know that a oil analysis should turn up something in there that shouldn't be there like an abrasive or lots of metal.  Anybody have any advice on who I should have do the analysis?

Thanks,

John

[Sojourner]

JohnEd...were you ever too low PS fluid level?

Does PS fluid show any air bubbles?

Very common cause of wrriiiiiiine or rrrrrr whenever you turn the steering wheel.

Or it the noise being without turning the steering wheel?

Sojourn for Christ, Gerald

[jjrbus]

Do a google/yahoo search for Lexus forums, clubs, chat rooms, repair etc. Others may have a similar problem.                                                                                                             HTH Jim

[pvcces]

John, Peterson Cat has Peterson Labs right there in Eugene. We had them do a few samples for us; probably around $20. Their number is 541-302-9199 to ask about their services.

For what it's worth.

Tom Caffrey

[JohnEd]

Tom,

I drive past that shop(?) maybe 3 times a week.  Never thought they had their own lab.  I like to do local so I will give them the call you suggested.

My good man, you never disapoint.

Thank you,

John