Power Steering Problems...Please Help!

[will944]

FYI...this is also posted on Rennlist

Hey all

I seem to have a problem with my power steering. Here are the situations:

1) Sometimes (any kind of weather) it will make a screach noise when turning the wheel...like it's low on fluid....but very quick and then goes away. When that happens, the steering wheel also locks up. Again....just just a split second. I release pressure and try again and no problems. This will happen once a day at the most.

2) When I go through a puddle, I will lose power steering for just a second or two. It will be tough to turn....and then fine again!

I know I have a slight leak in my Steering Rack...but I don't think it would cause these problems.

I think that the puddle water is splashing up and causing my belt to slip. As far as #1 goes...maybe the same worn out belt is slipping once in a while....not allowing for the pump to get any fluid where it needs to go.

What do you all think? Any help is MUCH appreciated.

[fast924S]

Sounds to me like its the belt. Whne you turn the Wheel your making the pump do more work, this could make the belt slip. I would check the tension on the belt before you go nuts over nothing

[Mike B]

I'm with fast924S...Sure sounds like a belt problem.

[will944]

Thanks guys....I appreciate the help

fast924s....I will call you in the next couple days....hope we can get together while I'm back in CT

[88_944]

Low power steering fluid sound like a "Hummm" sound from the Power steering pump not a screach so if the noise is a "screach", It's the belt needs tightening.

[will944]

UPDATE:

Power steering has stopped working. Further investigation shows the belt has come off.

I pulled the belt out and check the power steering pump. The top mounting bolt has no nut on it!!! You can giggle the pump around freely!! So...I am going to buy another nut to get that thing to stay in place. Then slap the belt on and be on my way.

Thanks again guys. You have been very helpful!