Parts for your 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero-Power steering pump

1987 Mitsubishi Pajero power‑steering pump — fitted, purpose, and servicing advice

Based on the Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero 1983–1991 workshop manual, Gregory’s Service and Repair Manual for Pajero (1983–1996), and Mitsubishi’s ASA electronic parts catalogue, the 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero is equipped with a belt‑driven hydraulic power‑steering pump on models specified with power steering (common in AU/NZ market trims). That makes a power‑steering pump absolutely relevant to this vehicle.

The pump’s job is straightforward: it pressurises fluid so the steering box can provide assist, keeping the wheel light at parking speeds and stable on the open road. On a well‑sorted 1987 Pajero—whether running the 2.6‑litre petrol or the 2.5‑litre turbo‑diesel—the pump helps it feel tidy around town and confident on corrugations. If the steering has gone heavy, there’s groaning or a whining note with wheel input, or fluid is weeping from the pump nose or hose unions, the pump or its plumbing is asking for attention.

For ongoing care, owners typically run Mitsubishi‑approved power‑steering fluid or Dexron II/III ATF (as specified in local service data). Fresh fluid every 40,000–60,000 km helps keep the pump quiet and the box happy, especially on vehicles that tow or see dusty, hot conditions. Belt condition and tension matter too—cracked ribs or a slack belt will squeal and under‑drive the pump.

• Before replacing a pump, confirm the fault: check belt tension, pulley wobble, hose clamps, and the return filter (if fitted).
• When swapping the pump, capture old fluid, use flare‑nut spanners on the high‑pressure line, and fit new O‑rings/copper washers as required.
• Refill, then bleed by turning lock‑to‑lock with the engine idling, topping up until bubbles clear. Don’t hold hard against the stops for more than a second.
• Set belt deflection per the workshop spec—over‑tightening can take out the pump or alternator bearings.
• After a test drive, recheck for seepage and fluid level, a slight drop after the first run is normal as air purges.

Replacement pumps and seal kits vary by engine code and market year, so matching the VIN/engine (e.g., 4D56 diesel or 4G54 petrol) against the parts catalogue is the safest way to get the right unit. With clean fluid, a healthy belt, and leak‑free lines, the old‑school hydraulic setup on a 1987 Pajero stays robust and easy to live with.

What fluid does a 1987 Pajero power‑steering pump use?

Most AU/NZ service data lists Mitsubishi PSF or Dexron II/III ATF. The steering box and pump on these models work well on quality ATF, but it’s best to follow the owner’s manual or workshop manual notes for the exact engine and market spec.

How can someone tell the pump is failing on a 1987 Pajero?

Classic signs include a moaning or high‑pitched whine that rises with steering input, heavy effort at low speeds, fluid foaming in the reservoir, or leaks around the pump shaft and hose unions. A glazed or loose belt can mimic pump noise, so it’s worth checking belt condition first.

How often should the power‑steering fluid be changed?

A 40,000–60,000 km interval suits most Aussie and Kiwi driving. If the vehicle tows, spends time off‑road, or the fluid looks dark or smells burnt, shorten the interval. Fresh fluid reduces pump wear and quietens the system.