I've got a 96 lt1 m6 trans am and after I swapped the short block (#8 spun) the power steering decides to whine. It has 100% functionality and turns like normal, but it whines like its low on fluid from the moment it lights. This is the 3rd pump (from NAPA) and I've bleed every one properly but they all whine. I even tried the Lucas stuff.
I've searched lt1ls1, ls1tech corvetteforums , and here and haven't found any substantial fixes.

What next? Nothing has fixed it or even remotely helped it.
Thanks

 

Maybe you got dirt in the hose and something is causing it to restrict flow...??

 

Possible, but not too sure about that, Its had fluid in and out at least 5 times with three pump installs.

 

You mention swapping the engine , and then this problem happening with three different pumps . This gives me the idea that during the engine replacement , one of the power steering lines got crushed or kinked and is now restricting the flow of fluid , causing the pump to starve for fluid and whine .

Inspect each and every inch of the power steering lines between the pump and steering box (rack maybe ? I'm not sure what a '96 uses for steering components) and look closely for any kinks , bends , or dents that don't belong in the lines , and I'll bet ya find a mashed one .

 

Did that when I put the motor back in, there is only one hard line that could be in jeopardy and it's accounted for as I pulled the body off the motor.
If the line was kinked the steering would be stiffer, but it's normal without any resistance.
Keep in mind it acts normal, but just has a whine.

 

when using a newer pump with the older steering box you will get the whine because the difference in flow and pressure its fine and will not wear the pump out mine ran for years without issue just did a monte carlo with a LS it does the same and a 72 chevelle and it does the same

 

Are you sure you have all the air out of the lines? Sometimes it can be a real PIA to get all the air out. Been there. If you are absolutely positive that there is no air in the system, my recommendation is to use a new GM pump. I searched my fix database of emails from IATN (international automotive technician's network) of over 10,000 fixes because I remember reading about guys having problems with noise after installing reman pumps. I found 10 emails about it. The only fix was to use a known good used pump or a new GM pump.

 

Update:
Just flushed and replaced the aftermarket fluid with GM cold climate #12345867 ($20.93). jacked the front up, turned the wheels lock to lock, started it and........ still makes noise.
Ill see if it clears out in the next few days and if it does not stop then I get to make a trip to the salvage. I guess I'm getting good at pulling off pumps.

 

you could always install a blower with strait cut gears.it will cover the pump sound up

 

Ha, funny.
I bought this car with the intention of selling it.

 

I have basically the same issue, replaced my pump , flushed, put Lucas pwr steering fluid, still whines

 

Yeah, Im on the fence about running ATF instead of my $20 cold climate.

 

It helps to have the engine running while you do this, not after.

 

It's DONE!
Here's the story: When I put the power steering bolts in the first time, the last turn to torque it down felt soft yet it was snug.
BUT what I didn't know is that after swapping out pumps a few times the threads were getting weaker and weaker.
So after attempting to swap out the fluid for ATF this weekend, I decide to helicoil the bracket and that did it!
Its all quiet now