Steering wheel turns hard, then easy, then hard, then easy. It's as though the power steering comes in and out while turning the steering wheel. Car was sitting for a month with electrical problems, but the steering worked fine when it broke down. Replaced steering pump, but this did nothing. Does this while turning steering wheel in either direction. Jacked front wheels off the ground and although easier to turn, still felt the power steering coming in and out as I turned the wheel. Shut engine off, and I can hear gurgling noises coming from the steering rack under vehicle while turning wheel. No fluid leaks. Can't get the car inspected because of this. A friend told me the steering rack was bad. If this is so....I give up !! I think this car beat me this time. Any ideas ?
The problem you are having with hard steering is the most common symptom of a failed power steering rack and opinion steering gear. Make sure when you replace it to flush the system thoroughly with clean fluid as the debris from the old gear can ruin the new one along with the PS pump you just replaced.
I'm going to agree with the rack conclusion. Keep in mind I can't see it for myself.
If you take the load off the front wheels, you should be able to turn the steering wheel without effort.
If the effort changes while turning the wheel, the only things affected would be the rack and the column.
If you notice it turns ok with the engine off but not with the engine running, it could be something with the pump or one of the lines, or still something with the rack.
Mine did the same thing after sitting for awhile. Get some heavy duty axle grease and lube up the steering u-joint really good.
SOURCE: power steering problems with 1997 ford taurus
What! Not likely the pump, if it has fluid. Most likely the steering rack is shot. Have a reman installed and flush the cooler or the new one will fail. Install a FILTRON magnetic filter, in the return line also. Use Mercon or Mercon V Fluid,not auto part store **** and never any sealers. If you want ,you could make up a blend of Lubegard and Mec V. I do all the above,If it isn't like a new car after all that,check out the ball joints , but especially the bearing assy on top of the struts. They could be half your stiffness. What causes these steering racks to fail ,is because, no one changes the fluid every couple years,just like you never flush brake fluid or trans fluid. I made a living in the trans business ,just on Taurus and Chrysler Caravans, for that very reason. Don't you just love neglect?
SOURCE: front end and steering wheel shakes
when slowing to make right turn is it more like a clicking noise, does it do it while turning or just when slowing down. If it is while you are turning it is most likely the right cv axle drive shaft popping. When at a stop with ac on does it shake if you put it in park and how do the rpms read in park or in drive. Did they change the trans mount also dont thank that is it just trying to get a better understanding so I can better assist you.
SOURCE: my ford explorer steering is stiff when turn in
did you bleed it good? there might be some trapped air inside the pump
SOURCE: My 2003 Ford Windstar whines when turning the steering wheel.
The power steering pump has gone bad. Consider replacing it because if serviced it will still show this sign in a little while.
Good luck.
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SOURCE: Car makes a clunking noise when I turn to the left
YES , THIS IS CERTAINLY YOUR LEFT OUTER CV JOINT, IT'S EASIER & CHEAPER TO REPLACE THE LEFT CV SHAFT
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