Power Steering Problems!

I am having problems with powersteering pumps.. every since my first one went out and i had it replace in november, i have went through 4 more pumps and my 5th one gradually went out the past two days and now is gone.. i cannot figure out what the deal is? A certified mechanic is putting them on everytime and cannot figure out what is going on? He has been flushing the lines everytime between changes.. can someone help me out?

 

If you keep replacing pumps, then chances are....there's something wrong elsewhere causing the pumps to die.

Have your mechanic check the steering rack.

Are all your steering components/balljoints in good working condition?

 

I know my balljoints and tie rod ends are good

 

Just wondering, your not using power steering fluid in there are you? You know your not supposed to use it right?
I think your supposed to use brake fluid only....

 

Brake fluid in a power steering pump!? Yikes!!

Maybe ATF, depending on the application.

 

X2

I know the first gen tacomas used ATF in the power steering.

I'm betting there's something wrong with the rack.

 

Anyone else had this problem or had to replace there Rack and pinion on there 1st Gen.?

 

Sorry about that, I meant Tranny fluid...... Brake fluid would be crazy....

 

I can see you posted this thread long ago. Here is what I suspect the problem is.
I have some friends that bought a Toyota 4 runner that moved into a new house. In order to pull into the garage. You sometimes had to stop, turn the wheel go forward and turn the wheel again then pull into the garage.
They had no problems till they started pulling their 4 runner into the garage. I suspect you may be stopping and turning the wheel (without moving) putting a HUGE amount of stress on the power steering system. If you have ever driven a car that didn't have power steering. You almost had to put your whole body weight into trying to turn the wheel if you weren't moving.
Make sure you are at least moving as you turn the wheel. I know from my friends turning the wheel at least 4 times a day for 6 months you start to get leaks.
Enlarge the area you need to park or at least move as your turning.
I'm pretty sure you mechanic is pretty happy at this point.

Curious if this is whats happening. Let me know.
If not, then you got me on this one. But this is what I have learned from experience.

skipster01