Cold weather steering problem

[RSanford]

This fall I bought my first CTD a 99 quad cab long box. I love the truck. This week we had our first cold weather, 5 degrees f. When I started the truck there was a groaning sound and vibration in the steering column and I couldn't turn the steering wheel unless I increased the rpm to 1100 rpm. Is this just because of the cold and normal until it warms up?



I now plug in the block heater and it is fine but if I go somewhere and park for a while the same problem occurs.



While driving for the first few miles if I let off on the gas the noise reappears if the rpm go below 1100.



Thanks



Richard

 

[JLEONARD]

Been there done that when the temps are really cold... say less that 10 deg F.

Takes a few seconds for the fluid to warm up I suspect.

After the first turn of the wheel things are ok.

If that's the case I don't think you have a problem.

Jay

 

[johnrv4]

A lot of members(me included) have switched the power steering fluid to a synthetic type. I used Valvoline Synpower(?). I changed it by using the turkey baster method of sucking it out and replacing it with the new stuff. Did that with 2 Qts. of the Valvoline. Mine will still steer kinda hard when cold, but the noise is gone. Try doing a search for "Power Steering". Also, welcome to the TDR!

 

[RSanford]

Thanks for the information. I am glad to know it is a common problem. I am going to try changing the fluid.



Thanks for your help.



Richard

 

[fox]

I just did the turkey baster method and can't believe that fluid is so dark. It's black.

I will do it again tonight to get it cleaned up.

 

[Alan Reagan]

I recommend the synthetic to help avoid that problem. Also, check and make sure the reservoir is full.

 

[RSanford]

I finally got around to changing the fluid to Synthetic. Works great. Thanks again.

 

[DieselDoghouse]

Welcome to the CTD family! I have also been running Valvoline synpower PSF for about 5 years—no problems. HOWEVER- if you have a leak in the system, synthetic fluid will find the exit, ANY exit, faster than conventional fluid.

 

[Mtngoat]

Thanks from me also, about the synthetics. It

was driving me crazy on cold days!

Robin