I think all of my fords have had noises in the power steering and I have just put up with it, but now the AU is making a few more noises than it has been - seem to be 'knocks' when under a bit of pressure - ie parking or low speed cornering.

Is this likely to be the pump, rack (I'm thinking the rack) or something else I can maybe lube or whatever.

I think I know the answer - new rack for about $500 or something?

I guess after 220,000k I can't expect much else....

yeah i got a quote for 420 including labour

but im in newcastle

could be just low fluid?

I got a new power steering rack for 220 plus fit , but i knew the dude.. i have no idea how much they normaly are.

check the brakes man. i thought i had steering rack problems but upon closer inspection the noise was coming from the calipers. i could feel the shaking in the steering wheel but no, it was actually coming from the brakes.

Could be, they squeak and there is a bit of road noise from the front. The brakes were 'checked' last service, but I think he had a quick look at the pads and they were ok so that was it.

I did turn the wheel a tad with it stopped and motor off, and there was a bit of noise coming from where I think what is refered to as the steering rod is attached to the rack??? I'm refering to the thing that goes from the firewall to the rack - is that the rod? Does that sound right....

Can I stick some grease on the connection where it rotates???

I hope you understand what I mean.....non mechanic remember.