Do you have to remove the front bumper and lock carrier to change the power steering pump?

 

From this video clip my impression is that you can change it without removing the bumper. It looks like you can reach easily the pump bolts from the front - even with the bumper on, or from the air filter side

While the TB doesn't appear to be a problem, in the clip the accesory belt is already off, so I have no idea how much it interferes with the Power steering pump on a 2.7T. However, if the PS Pump is driven by the same accessory belt, then it doesn't matter as you have to take it off anyway.
Existing write ups for a TB job on a 2.7 suggest taking the bumper and the carrier off to expose the front of the engine for ease of reach and work room.

I'm sure someone with a 2.7 will shed a better light on the subject for you.

Good luck.

 

I have a power steering pump whine which never goes away (bearings are going bad) so it looks like i will need to replace the pump as well. Ive been searching, but is there any write up on the replacement on these? I have a 2.7T, or bzook, how hard was the actual job? Im pretty knowledgeable as far as mechanic work is concerned, but i was hoping i could find a write up somewhere before i start taking things apart.

 

The job is no big dealbutis far easier with the front of the car open. It's a serpentine belt system that has to be removed and it's a really tight squeeze to de-tension the belt with it all assembled, not to mention that undoing the lines from the pump will suck without easy access created by opening the front. Opening it is easy since the car is designed to be opened. Just do it and while you're in there you can clean things up, inspect for vacuum leaks, etc.

 

+1... PS pump finally seems to be on it's last legs. Has been whining at full steering wheel crank for years, but after the recent cold snap, it's howling like a half dead animal. Anyone have a good recommended link to a video tutorial of taking the front off to make this an easy install?

 

Looking like I might attempt this even though taking the whole front off this car seems pretty daunting. But as far as parts go, it looks like there are few different non-OEM manufacturers, A1Cardone = $65, ZF=$229, Maval=$167...

Thoughts? I don't buy OEM parts, BTW.

 

Its not always the pump that whines. On top of the engine you will find a return hose. Its usually cracked and sucking air. There should be enough hose there to trim 3/8 to 1/2 inch replace the hose and use two clamps on it. Your steering after being bled out should now be quiet. Top up the reservoir and over fill it just a little.

 

Great info. Thanks. Quick noob question though... when you say to bleed the system, is there a petcock or drain somewhere? Or how would you recommend bleeding the system. I know how to bleed brakes!... but not a power steering system.

 

With both wheels in the air turn it lock to lock and that should bleed the air out. do this while idling and a couple of times. The return hose is under the front plastic cover that you lift off.

 

Awesome. Thank you