The pump is whining. They all do it to an extent. It gets worse when you're low on fluid.

 

Ah, okay. Good to know. Is it safe to substitute ATF for power steering fluid? I can't afford to be putting power steering fluid in it all the time, so I've been substituting ATF. Is that safe or will it damage stuff?

 

ATF is all I run. It's all the same crap.

 

Actually ATF has detergents that can leach through and damage hoses not designed for it. However at this point I would replace the high pressure hoses with the repair job anyway. They aren't all that expensive and you don't have to worry about reeling the job later.

 

So...given the pictures I posted and the leak rate I described, what would you all say is wrong with the gearbox?

Thanks so much for your help!

 

If you have a leak, then that leak is also a source for air to enter the system. Air = Noise.

 

Do not use power steering fluid. Ford specifies ATF

 

It seems to be coming from the pitman arm seal.

 

Ok if the manufacturer calls for it use whatever they specify. There are definately differences in the fluids.

 

Okay, I guess I'll pull my gearbox and check all of the seals. I guess pulling the gearbox is pretty involved process as it is, so if it's rusted or corroded, I guess I'll just replace it. I'll post pictures as soon as it's pulled!