Is the noise from the column or external, from the tyres for example. Squealing on lock could mean a seized VCU.
If it does it with the vehicle stationary, I would say it's a case of stripping bits off the column until it stops.
Deffo not the belts as they are fairly new and very quiet. Fluid was changed in March and I had additive added. The noise seems to sound quite low down the column although it is one of those noises that is rather hard to track. Its odd that it only occurs on left turns and not on right. As mentioned it has been there for many years but I am on the rampage trying to fix outstanding items on my list...........Check your Alternator belt and tensioner first. Any cracks on the belt or missing tracks can cause this also, the tensioner needs a good bar or strong screwdriver to ease it back off the belt. If it releases really easily it's shot.
Just to add, when was the last time the power steering fluid was changed?
Take a small sample from the reservoir and check on white paper for any debris in the oil.
If it's brown or smells like it's burnt it needs changing
All present and correct sir. The noise starts pretty much as soon as you start to turn the steering wheel to the left.
What about the rod just before the steering box. Is it in good tat?
So if you hold the steering there in that position does it stop or continue?
Stops, only does it when turning, just like a dry bushing, however, that would mean it would do it both left and right
I will try that next. TBH I only usually have one side up at a time, I do have 2 stands though so I will give it a go. It isn't causing any steering issues as it is, it is just one of those annoying niggles and doesn't appear noticeable from the outside because no one ever seems to look
All centred nicely, recently had the tracking done after fitting new track rods, drag link and steering damper. As mentioned this has been there for the past 10 years or more, never gets worse or any better come to that!!
Just tried that, no noises when not running, I was hoping that I might actually find the issue!
So it can't be the steering column. Slipping belt, idler or pulley bearing, or maybe pump / steering box noise ?
I guess it must be the pump, the belts and pulleys/bearings are all in good shape. I am going to give it another flush out and put in some of the Lucas additive and see if that does anything. Probably will end up living with it I guess
With wheels off the round there is no load on the steering components so may not be a definitive test of the column.
