Hello Only when the car is cold and you turn the steering wheel you hear a loud squeaking noise. I checked the belt and it seems to be somewhat new and tight. I checked the power steering fluid level that is good. So my questions to you are..... Are the power steering pumps notorious for leaks or going bad in 87? What are the signs/symptoms of a power steering pump going bad? How can I find out if I can fix the noise or if I need to replace power steering pump? Have you heard of this problem or similar in a 87-91 Toyota Camry? Thanks for your help in these matters.
Dave

 

Use a section of "rubber" house as a stethoscope and listen to the suspected area someone turns the steering wheel.

The Camry pumps can fail but it is not a common problem.

Suggest you first change the belt. A belt can look OK but the sides have glazed over resulting in slipping and noise that only gets worse.

If the PS system were leaking it would typically be where the PS pump drive shaft comes out of the housing, a PS hose or the seals at the end of the steering rack housing (where the "rubber" boots are.

A failing pump might result in a growling noise, loss of power steering, leaking seal.

Check out the belt first.

 

Hello,
I am confused here what do you mean when you said.... Use a section of "rubber" house as a stethoscope and listen to the suspected area someone turns the steering wheel.
Please rephrase this for me to understand more clearly as I don't get what you are saying here......

The belt is fine I went under the car today and checked it out. The only thing I did notice that is wierd is the belt might be a little loose. I am not sure though at first when I wiggled the belt it seemed okay and just right not too tight or loose me for that matter. But at a closer look and wiggling it more it seemed to be a little loose not sure how to tell if the belt is too loose. Perhaps you can advise me and hlep me here thanks.
Dave

 

Rather then place your ear close to the PS belt to listen to if it is squeaking use a section of rubber hose as a stethoscope. Place one end to your ear and the other in the area of belt (or where you think the noise is coming from). Obtain a hose 1/2 to 1 inch ID and long enough to reach.

Using this method it is much easier to localize the area of the noise.

A belt can glaze over from too much slipping the result being it needs to be replaced or it will squeal.

 

That is not a bad idea I was trying to stick my ear as close as possible to the area and ended up getting all dirty. I will have to go buy the hose and try it thanks.
Dave