P/S & Brakes: I said I would... So here goes...

STORMINORMAN · #1 07-03-2007, 11:41 AM

Power Steering: As far as I can tell the main differences in the two types of power steering systems on the SVX is almost totally limited to the rack & pinion assembly and the steering column itself. Different part numbers, etc.

There do seem to be two different high pressure hose assemblies but they look to be interchangeable: one has a shorter hose and a steel line on top of the passenger side of the motor, the other a longer h/p hose.

The pump itself, pully, reservoir, connector, pressure switch, etc. are the same, at least as far as I could tell, from '92 -'97, at least as far as US cars are concerned. The pressure switch on the pump connector (top of the engine) seems to be more concerned with simply maintaining idle quality than as a high tech sensor re: "electronically controlled speed sensitive" vs. rpm controlled systems. IMHO all that difference is addressed at the column and @ the rack & pinion. Probably a different electrical interface with some computer functions, also.

Front Brake Vibration: I was prepared to purchase new (actually rebuilt) unloaded front calipers WITH mounting brackets (which means the parts which the calipers bolt to, containing the pins, etc.), new hoses, pads, etc.

All it really needed was new rotors. Mine were original, 144K+ miles, turned three or four times (last time they told me that was it: couldn't be turned again but within spec for this turning)...

I believe that as the rotor thickness is reduced the pads are moving & releasing at a point within the caliper where any warping or pad wear exascerbates the vibration/noise.

All I can say is that in my case the brakes feel like they are brand new: no vibration, no squeal, etc. I didn't even change the pads because they were all appeared to be worn equally, this with over 30K miles since the last brake job.

I'm happy!

Cheers!

ensteele · #2 07-03-2007, 04:33 PM

What kind of rotors did you get?

STORMINORMAN · #3 07-04-2007, 01:43 PM

Raybestos PPG+ part # 397 96350 delivered @ $111.15

Very happy with them!

Cheers!

processengr · #4 07-09-2007, 06:35 PM

Good info,
I have been wondering about the differences in speed sensitive vs. rpm sensitive, as my replavement rack and pump seem overboosted, plus the idle is poor sometimes ( anew problem same time as new rack)
Question, what do you mean by switch for idle quality?

STORMINORMAN · #5 07-12-2007, 04:03 AM

This is part # 34428PA000 and is called the "oil pump switch" by Subaru: it is located directly to the left (as you view the engine from the front) of the pump body itself. It is round, screws into the "connector" from the back and has a 2-wire pigtail attached. It is my belief it somehow basically measures (vs. "regulates") presure out of the pump and that this signal may be used by both the "rpm sensitive" AND the "electronic speed sensitive" (Touring Package) power steering systems as AN input (as in potentially "one of the inputs") to the idle control system: at low rpm as you put more strain on the system to turn the wheels (as in parking) it helps maintains the idle "quality". At higher rpm (higher pressure due to higher pump flow) it PROBABLY also sends a signal that reduces the boost felt at the rack...

At least that is what I surmise.

You may want to check the part number on your replacement rack & pinion.

Cheers!