Steering Pump Belt FORD KA (RB_)
FORD KA (RB_) 1.3 i
@Chippy
07.02.2021 14:58
Member
HiĀ
Iām new to this or come to that any type of forum and trying to save a few pounds to keep the old Ford KA on the road for a while longer. Ā Iām not particularly car savvy and so bear with me.
My car started whining when turning left, but then I noticed this more so when stuck in traffic and SLOWLY moving forward. Ā The problem is not apparent when running idle or revving the engine. Ā My neighbour who is car savvy but canāt help too much at the moment due to illness suggested it was probably the steering pump belt that needs replacing and I should be able to do it.
Since Iāve looked at many tutorials but canāt find any specific to the KA. Ā What Iāve observed is I can obtain a PAS pump but not the belt itself. Ā Perhaps this comes with a new pump. Ā If it does the description of what you get with a pump is not very clear on any of the websites Iāve looked at. Ā Maybe itās not known as a steering pump belt? Ā Also, my car has air conditioning, if this helps.
It would be useful to know the answer to theses questions although not so critical now as Iāve decided the first thing Iām going to do is change the steering fluid as whatās in there is jet black and horrible . Ā Iāve removed the majority of what I can with a turkey bastor and by moving the steering lock back and forth to extract more fluid. Ā Iām not planning to do a complete fluid change as too complicated and I donāt have the tools. Ā Then once Iāve run in for a couple of miles change the fluid again using the same method which should extract the majority of the fluid. Ā Iāll ensure I get the air out by moving steering lock back an forth and top up fluid slowly.
This will probably seem a bit long winded for all you hardened mechanics but I simply donāt have the knowledge or tools to go any further. Ā My limit to date is changing an exhaust silencer and two headlight assemblies on this vehicle which went well.
Iām hoping my neighbour is wrong and that partially changing the steering fluid over a couple of changes will resolve the problem as it DEFINITELY needs doing.
Anyway thanks in advance for your assistance and any other advice and information which is not too technical would be appreciated. Ā What I have learned due to lack of space under the bonnet is you need hands of a baby to do anything, which sadly I donāt have, and you have to remove multiple parts before reaching the part in question.
Keep safe.
Kind regards
PaulĀ
07.02.21
03.10.25
- @Charles Roberts03.10.2025 11:17MemberHi Paul,
For your Ford KA whining when turning left at slow speeds, your neighbor might be onto something with the steering pump belt, but let's clarify a few points to help you feel more confident tackling this:
1. Power Steering Pump Belt: The Ford KA uses a serpentine (V-ribbed) belt that drives multiple accessories, including the power steering pump. You won't find a separate "steering pump belt" ā it comes as part of this multi-ribbed belt.
2. Belt Availability: You can buy the serpentine belt separately ā itās not always included with a new pump. Look for the V-ribbed or serpentine belt specific to your KAās engine and year. Some online parts sellers or local auto shops can help with the exact belt size and part number.
3. Replacing the Belt: It usually involves loosening the belt tensioner pulley (using a spanner or ratchet), slipping off the old belt, and routing the new belt following the belt path diagram (often found on a sticker under the bonnet). This job can be done with standard hand tools and a bit of patience, even in a tight engine bay.
4. Power Steering Fluid: Your approach of partially draining and refilling the fluid using a turkey baster is a good start if you don't have the tools for a full flush. Remember after refilling, cycle the steering wheel lock-to-lock a few times to bleed out air bubbles and keep an eye on fluid level.
5. Other Causes for Whining: If the belt is good and fluid topped up, a whining noise can also come from the pump itself, especially if worn, or from low fluid pressure. Tire rubbing or worn steering components can sometimes sound similar.
6. Space and Tool Limitations: The KA's engine bay is tight for sure, so using smaller tools, patience, and even removing a wheel or undertray can help gain access. - @Charles Roberts03.10.2025 11:17MemberStarting with a fresh serpentine belt and fresh fluid often fixes or delays power steering whining, so youāre on the right track. You can definitely DIY this with common tools and careful steps! There are also videos online showing serpentine belt changes on Ford KAs to guide you visually.
Good luck with the KA rescue mission, and take it step-by-step. Every mechanic started exactly where you are now! ššš ļø
