Question
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The text above is a follow-up to ...
-----Question-----
Two problems:
There's a steady hum coming from under the hood, near the radiator. It seems to be loudest when idling, but less so upon acceleration. Also, steering seems to factor in. Sometimes a left or right turn will silence the problem. I've checked the power-steering levels, and all seems well. Maybe it's a noisy fan?
Second: My wiper fluid is not coming out. I dunno if it's the pump or not, but there is no sound at all when activated. Windshield wipers work fine, although I just got my rear one working.
Any help would be appreciated.
Cheers,
Kim Schimmel
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Hi Kim,
Looks like you'll need to replace that noisy power steering pump. An honest garage shouldn't charge more than $200 for that. The pump for the washer fluid could have a bad fuse. Check all your fuses and if they appear to be ok you could try using a test light to see if there is power at the pump by unplugging it and activating the washer. If the fuses seem ok and there is power at the pump then you'll need to replace the pump. I found that with Ford, you'll need to purchase the entire tank, which makes the install easy. I paid like $36 for the tank, sender and pump assembly. Check first though.
Hey Dinger:
I can't believe how quickly you replied. Your timely advice is much appreciated, not to mention commendable.
My car, however, is becoming a real money pit. I bought it a couple months ago at a federal surplus auction for $800, taxes and fees not included. Anyway, you could only listen to the engine during viewing -- no test driving as the 200-plus cars on the block were wedged in tighter than sardines.
Readers Digest version: Brake pads; two shot back rotors (including one that was split in half) $340 labour included.
Two rear shocks: $350; diagnostics. (ABS brake light on. Diagnosis: new censors in at least three, something else I can't quite remember) LOTSA MONEY I DON'T HAVE AND SOMETHING THAT DOESN'T NEED TO BE DONE.
And then, the brackets holding up my fan rotted away, and the fan fell onto the radiator and chipped away at that, necessitating a $500 rad replacement.
So, whadya think? Sell it, or not?
Kim
P.S. It's not the parts that are costly, it's the labour. Unfortunately, auto mechanics is not my forte.
AnswerHi Kim,
I personally like Sables a lot and I am so sorry to hear you having so many problems. Here in Vegas, we joke about leaving bad cars in a ditch next to Bugsy. A gallon of gas and a match maybe... Just kiddin! LOL Since you have a boat load of cash tied up in this you may want to go ahead and finish repairs on it and drive it until the wheels fall off. If you sell it, I am afraid you will take a fair beating on it.
