Steering Still Feels Very Tight/Heavy

[Learning]

Hi everybody

I know there is a leak in my power steering fluid reservoir. Every time the fluid level runs low and the steering feels tight/heavy, I just top the oil and my steering feels normal again even if I top the reservoir with anti leak fluid such as Lucas Anti Leak or Auto Zone Anti Leak brand. However, the latest topping with Lucas Power Steering Anti Leak didn't help at all. My steering is still feeling very heavy and tight now. I don't know what the problem is. I thought this was a simple problem. Hope somebody could help explain.
Thank you!

[roguetoaster]

By low you mean how low?

But an E30 without power steering can feel heavy. In any case you should fix your leak instead of throwing fluid at it. Generally, a PS leak is a cheap fix as they are loads of working used parts floating around that few people want.

[LJ851]

You may have finally damaged the pump from running it out of fluid so many times.

[Austin30]

I agree with lj851 sound to me like you have damaged your pump. Is it whining at all when you turn

[Josh1254]

First you should fix the leak. You could just have air in the system from running it low. I would suggest using ATF and not "power steering fluid". Your car is meant to run ATF.

[Merlin8]

Could need a new steering rack. Look into upgrades with a shorter lock to lock. Can be expensive though. Do you hear a buzzing sound when you turn the wheel?

[brianf408]

That Lucas Power Steering stop-leak is pretty thick sticky stuff. It ruined the pump in my Land Rover.

The reservoir costs about the same as two bottles of stop leak, just replace the damn thing.