Really wierd noise on '01 Itasca

[nbounder]

We are looking seriously at an '01 Itasca Suncruiser. One of the obvious defects manifests itself when the key is turned on at the steering column - a foreign grinding type noise erupts from under the dashboard in front of the driver's left knee, not unlike a fan whose blades are loose. Bein, as I'm pretty well versed about the technical stuff, but point zero about direct Itasca experience with Itasca, I'd like to hear from anyone who has experience with something nutty like this.

[Skip426]

How long does the noise go on for , ? or does it never stop ?
If it stops , any chance they just choose a bad place to put the A/C control Vacuum pump. Mine runs for 20>30sec. on key on then stops, can't be heard once the motor starts.

[John Hilley]

If it is the Ford F-53 chassis it may be the brake booster.

[corvettec3]

Originally Posted by John Hilley

If it is the Ford F-53 chassis it may be the brake booster.

I agree with John. It is the auxiliary hydraulic pump on the Hydramax braking system. The pump stops when the engine starts and the power steering pump takes over. If you ever loose engine power be assured you will still have power brakes to bring you to a stop.

[Clay L]

The Workhorse chassis also has a brake booster pump. It comes on when the ignition is on, the brakes are applied and the engine is not running.

[garykk]

Mine comes on whether the brakes are applied or not.....as soon as the ignition key is turned on and goes off when engine is running....first time I heard it, it startled me...its annoying too if you have to leave the key on for something.....

[Clay L]

I need to correct my post above. It should read:

The Workhorse chassis also has a brake booster pump. It comes on when the brakes are applied and the engine is not running.
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