Power steering filter question

**bmw6fan** · 05-04-2018, 09:18 AM

Is the power steering filter really necessary? Has anyone just left it out?

**1986series6** · 05-04-2018, 02:34 PM

It also filters the power brake system from metal filings and abrasive debris.

**DesktopDave** · 05-05-2018, 11:24 PM

I've run cars for a short while without it, but I always felt it was cheap insurance to keep one installed. My car was squealing, I thought the filter was clogged. It just ended up being air leaks at the two small reservoir hoses. I might invest in crimp rings & pliers for those joints next time. Hose clamps are troublesome on a 6mm line.

**dmac156** · 05-05-2018, 11:42 PM

Risk to reward is not there. Nobody can prove that it will be okay. Better to just keep it in there.

**bmw6fan** · 05-06-2018, 10:49 AM

Thanks for the input guys. I will run with the filter. I've ran a little without it while one is on order. The filter that was in mine was shaped sort of like a bellied out cone and was pressing against the pipe going to the pump. I think maybe restricting flow. I don't think the new filter is that shape. I think some kind of makeshift filter. The picture of the new one looks cylindrical . I see running without the filter there is a lot more turbulence in the reservoir coming from the return from the steering box. That filter will stop that too. It is my observation that the returns from the distribution valve and the power brake booster don't go through the filter anyway. I've replaced all the return lines on my car to eliminate leaks. I came to this point because in my car when running at 75 or 80 mph and going around a gentle curve I could feel and hear a slight steering pump wine. With the filter out it is about gone. I'm thinking maybe with the filter in and less turbulence in the reservoir it will be even better.