power steering issues?

[Adrian_Visser]

I've been having an bit of an issue with my power steering since I bought my car a couple weeks ago ('89 is) the power steering doesnt seem to be boosting the steering all the time, it seems worse when turning left.

Sometimes it boosts properly, sometimes the wheel seems really heavy. Taking 90 degree left turns at normal driving speeds seems worst the wheel usually (not always) feels totally unboosted, sometiems when driving at really slow speeds when you would think you'd notice a dead power steering pump it boosts fine or feels really heavy for the first say 20 degrees of steering wheel travel.

i checked the fluid level and added some fluid, the rack was replaced by the po. at first i though maybe it was something to do with the wide tires on it grabbing at low speeds but it does it at speed too so im kina stumped. i have a spare pump which ima try swapping in. could this be a problem with the valving in the rack itslef or what?

[ethree]

Just disconnect it. You don't really need power steering.

[Adrian_Visser]

i'd rather not, have you disconnected yours? having to reef like hell on the wheel at low speeds isn't fun

[Keanan]

Try driving without power steering for one week. Your arms will get stronger and soon you won't have to "reef like hell" on the wheel. I drove the last 80,000 miles in my car without power steering. I really liked it even for autocross and track days.

Before tossing a new pump on it here are four things to try: First make sure the belt is in good condition and that it is tight. Second find the hose that connects the pump to the reservoir. Disconnect this hose from the pump and let it drain the reservoir. Put the hose back on and fill reservoir with proper fluid. Third, Cut the belt into two pieces and install it in your local landfill. Fourth, Install a new driver.

No really check your belt tension and fluid levels first. Throwing a part at it won't solve the problem.