Power steering fubard

[thelionisking]

Well first i threw the main belt off.been replaced by rac and all is running fine...except bloody power steer.its heavy as buggery,fluid in reservoir and looks as though belt is turning...and ideas?steering rack?air in system?seal kit????
Cheers

[Longman]

The symptoms you describe can be caused by a few things. You've already stated the fluid level is fine, so there could be air in the system or throwing the belt whilst driving may have damaged your steering pulley.

a) Make sure the new belt is adjusted correctly and check all hoses to make sure they are serviceable, connected properly and not resting against the engine block or the exhaust manifold.
b) Check that the pulley is not bent or loose. If bent, replace it, if loose tighten it.
c) If all looks correct, you could try bleeding the steering system, though this should be a last resort. I'd be more inclined to think the pulley was damaged.

To bleed is relatively simple - this is copied from my manual:

1) Top up fluid reservoir to the correct level and allow to sit for several mins to settle.
2) Start engine and run for 2-3 seconds only. Top up fluid if required.
3) Repeat the above until the fluid level remains constant.
4) Jack up the car so both front wheels are off the ground with sufficient room to turn the wheels.
4) Start the car and bring revs up to around 1500rpm. Gently turn the wheels from lock to lock. Check fluid again. Ensure fluid level is constant (top up if required).
5) Lower vehicle to ground. Gently drive forward and obtain full right lock followed by full left lock. Check fluid again. If the fluid is frothy, turn car off and let sit for a few minutes before repeating the operation. Continue until fluid is no longer frothy.

If none of the above help, then possibly the pump was damaged. I'd be looking at getting it checked by a steering specialist before spending any $$ on fixing it at home. New pumps range from $120 off ebay to $180 from a steering place (supply only), add up to $200 for fitting (that's what I was quoted).

Good luck.