steering problem? brake problem? no problem?

[tandersen]

I have a question on the operation and connection of the brakes and power steering. My cousin has a '99 that is driving him crazy because he cannot turn the steering wheel more than a few inches while stopped with his foot on the brake. I have a '01 and it is the same way. I had never noticed it until he mentioned he was selling his because the dealer was unable to fix it. I have not been bothered or even noticed this but he certainly has. Any comments? Thanks, Tom.

 

[Doc Tinker]

The power assist for our brakes and steering run off the same system (pump).



It's not unusual to see the symptoms that you and your cousin have experienced. I have seen many school busses that use the same system, and they have the same problem.



It's not a good idea to sit with the brakes applied and steer your truck anyway. Doing that will promote wear in your steering linkage and tires. I was taught to roll while steering.



Doc

 

[tandersen]

Thanks for the reply Doc. I figured there was a connection. Again I had never noticed because I don't do it myself. Maybe he will get over it now or maybe he is looking for an excuse to trade, whatever, I don't see it as a problem. Regards, Tom.

 

[rrausch]

Turning the steering wheel while parked with one foot on the brake is kinda like using a hydraulic press to pry the front end apart. I roll as I turn too!

 

[redneckdr]

stopped steering

i can't remember reading it in my current truck owner's manual, but other vehicle owner's manuals tell you not to turn the wheels while sitting still. puts some very bad stresses on the steering components.

 

[sam peterson]

all of the posts so far have some validity but the fact of the matter is that the hydroboost system should not operate the way that tanderson is experiencing. if pump pressure--rpm--accumulator and belt tightness are ok the system should not be loosing boost or steering at the same time. if stepping on the throttle and raising the rpm's a little improves the situation then the pump pressure is running a little low. ---Sam

 

[tandersen]

Thanks for the input Sam, I did try giving my truck some throttle, it made no differance. As for the other truck I don't know. I do know he has replaced the track bar twice (bent). Regards, Tom.