Power Steering Pressure Sensor

[DarthBulk]

Ok, I have run into a problem with my power steering pump. I ordered a new one from a parts store, not the dealer. There is a threaded hole in it, where the pressure sensor is supposed to go. I exchanged my old one for a core. Here is the problem. I called the Mitsubishi dealer to get a new pressure sensor to fill the hole in my new pump. They said you CANNOT buy that sensor separately. It only comes with a new pump. How much is a new pump? Try $569. So, does anyone know where I can get this pressure sensor? Apparently Mitsubishi doesn't even have a part number for it, separate from the pump (so I was told by my local dealer). I do have an AEM EMS, so maybe I could just find a plug for that hole (I know it is pressurized, I would find the appropriate threaded plug) and not worry about it.

 

[sweet97]

That post with the wire on it is a pressure sensor? It doesn'y seem to matter if it's pplugged on or not. I am sure plenty of guys here have spare posts/sensors. mark

 

[DarthBulk]

Apparently it is. Just out of curiosity, does your "post with a wire on it" look like it is threaded into the power steering pump? I am still amazed that Mitsubishi does not have a part number for something that is removable, separate from the power steering pump.
If anyone does have one of these laying around...I would be interested.

 

[neuro]

The switch in question is a sensor for the factory ECU to increase the idle whenever a pressure increase is sensed when you turn the wheel. You may not even need this connected if you're using the EMS. I had the same problem as you when I swapped PS pumps last year, ended up having to go pull a switch of a junker in the junkyard.

If I remember correctly, there are 4 pieces to this switch...the top post, a spring, a brass plunger and a really small piston that's easy to miss when you pull the assy apart. If you want it to work, don't forget the lil piston part. I had to use needle nose pliers to pull it out. The piston sits in a small oil hole in the pump housing. Pressure on the piston pushes the plunger against the spring until it makes contact with the upper post, completing the circuit.

 

[DarthBulk]

Thanks for the information! I guess I'll be visiting a junkyard, or maybe I can measure the threads and see if I can buy (or make) a plug for that hole.

 

[BUCK]

Also get some small assorted Viton (red or brown) O Rings & replace them in any Junkyard Pressure Switch or Plug you use or it will leak & kill your Alt - Consider Flushing & going to Syn PS Fluid too.

 

[DarthBulk]

I have never used synthetic ps fluid, but I might give that a try. My entire ps system is new, including the rack, so it has never seen fluid yet. Do you realize any advantage with synthetic ps fluid?

 

[BUCK]

EVERYTHING gets hot as hell in these things so Syn PS Fluid can't hurt - I used Pennzoil Syn P/S Fluid - I'd DEFINITELY do that with all new stuff like you have - I actually re-routed & of course replaced the Hose portions of my PS Return & Cooling Lines too so as to get an additional 1/2 inch to work in there between the Fender & Timing Cover - The stock routing sucks IMO - Once again this would be the ideal time for you to do that also...

 

[Boostin91TSi]

I actually used to work in Mitsubishi parts as a Assistant Manager and have the CAPS program available. The part is actually available seperately. Part number for a 1991 Mitsubishi Eclipse FWD is MB266455. If you have any questions, feel free to PM me and ask!

 

[Lofty]

Mines unplugged always, it leaks a bit, but nothing happens from it with my car..