Clattering Noise from engine ( maybe power steering pump )

[Brettski187]

I have purchased a 2003 ML270 CDI. I noticed a noise when turning corners and read up on it, suggestions were to check power steering fluid. I did this and with a warm engine, the fluid level was below the Min of the 20 degrees section. ( very very low right ? ) I topped this up, which didn't seem to take much. Now working through other issues, one of them being what i can only describe as a clattering sound coming from or near one of the pulleys on the serpentine belt. Looking at diagrams, I believe this may be the power steering / pump.

The clattering is only at low revs and goes away at anything above 13k rpm. Beyond the fact the noise is annoying and makes the car sound like a double decker bus, I am concerned something is failing.

Any Ideas ?

 

[142 TPL]

Sounds like you need a new alternator pulley. They are of the free wheel variety and seize and cause the noise your talking about