Power Steering Issues

[v1sc]

I'm having a problem with my power steering. The only time the problem occurs is when I am sitting still I lose power steering. When I get close to full lock on either side it is completely gone. In the middle of the range there seems to still be a little power but it is still difficult to turn. If I am moving even in the slightest (and I mean barely rolling) I can turn it lock to lock with one finger. It is only when I am completely stopped.



The fluid level is still good. I have tried increasing the RPMs to see if maybe the pump is going bad but it acts the same way no matter what the RPMs are doing. There seemed to be a little pressure on the reservoir. It would give a little pop when I pulled the cap. I read about a little vent in the cap of the reservoir clogging up so I pulled the cap apart and cleaned that out which didn't help. My steering box is fairly new (about a year old) from Redhead.



Anybody have any other ideas?

 

[AH64ID]

The pump is also your brake assist, so how do the brakes act when you are having this issue?

 

[v1sc]

Oh I forgot to mention that as well. There is no difference in the brakes. They feel just as firm as they always have.

 

[NIsaacs]

When you are stopped and have poor steering, is your foot on the brake? If so, try it without.



Nick

 

[v1sc]

It happens both when my foot is on and off the brakes.

 

[NIsaacs]

Maybe the belt is slipping? Have someone watch the drive pulley on the pump while you turn the wheel until it stops. Does the drive pulley slow or become jerky?



Nick

 

[cerberusiam]

If you haven't replaced the PS pump it may be time. They have a habit of getting weak with age. There is an updated pump avaialable that MIGHT solve the issue, dependenht on what it really is.

What are you running for tires? The larger tire sizes make an impact on how easy it is to turn the wheel stopped. These trucks are heavy and there is a massive amount of weight on the front tires. Tire width, surface type, etc all have a part in how easy the wheel turns at a stop.

 

[v1sc]

My tires are 285/75x17 Toyo ATs. Same ones I see in your sig.

I was hoping I wouldn't need a new PS pump but unfortunately you may be right.

 

[cerberusiam]

Mine is leaking and it doesn't turn like I think it should at a stop either. Firgure it has the typical problems of these pumps and needs an update.