I have recently replaced my PS pump and PS cooling fan. Both are working porperly, however now at idle I can hear a pulsating whine from new pump. In addition to the sound my headlights will dim in cadence with the pulsating whine.

Other than that everything on my mini is fine, should this be cause for alarm?

'02 Mini Cooper S 98,000 miles

 

Check your voltage....
Sounds like your alternator might be on the way out.....

 

My voltage bounces between 12.7 and 13.1, once again in cadence with the whine.

 

I am having the exact same issue after having a new PS pump installed. I have also had the alternator and voltage regulators replaced. The problem has not changed, I also have a slight dip in my RPMs in unison with the dimming and power steering whine. The mechanics seem to have no idea, I will be taking it to the mini dealership this week but they didn't sound promising.

 

Sorry to hear that Chad, but could you keep us posted if they get to the bottom of the issue?

 

Check your crank pulley. A failing one would intermittently slip.
If you wanna simplify the system, Condor Speed Shop is closely studying a delete kit much like the e30s here:
https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...elete-kit.html

 

Is this a new pump or reman?

 

Brand new PS pump.

 

The whinning sound of the pump is "normal", the new ones are known for it, but the lights dimming is another story. You could always try to pull the steering pump fuse just to see if the dimming/variation is still there, if it goes away, the pump has something (New parts aren't always troubles free).

 

I pulled the fuse, lo and behold the issue resolves. I have ordered a new PS pump we shall see if that permanantly solves this issue. I will keep yo all posted.

 

What brand of pumps did you guys use. I just installed a Dorman remfg and I also have the dimming headlights and dash lights from pulsing voltage. The Dorman is quiet and works smooth but now I'm concerned with the load in must be creating on the electrical system. The Dorman through NAPA has a lifetime warranty, but if it burns up my wire harness I'll be stuck with that repair

 

The whinning sound normal? I got my used r53 and I'm having this sound, but no lights dimming. also I haven't driven any other minis to compare, aside to my other car which is a lot smoother feel to steer.So I assumed my ps nor the rack is troubled just because of the sound.. I maybe wrong and hopefully I am. Other than said how do I know if those parts are really gone way shot?

 

Whine is NORMAL... Especially for pre 2005 cars...the pumps were "altered" to make them more quiet for 2005+....
Indecently... These cars with the newer, quieter pump (shared the same part number) ARE NOT part of the extended warrenty.....do check the fluid level...they can get noisy when low...and ensure the fan is OK....but don't stress it...they are good till they stop or fail to turn off....

 

Zippy ziiiip striiikke! You're like a pain reliever to me my friend, my pain is gone lol. My car is really unique! It's like singing... Whine to the left and whine to the right but don't worryyy cuz im alrighttt! Haha. Now dance with it! Its called the mini ps song.