Too Light Steering

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TheAutumnWind

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Resurrecting an old thread. Seems like there are two issues: 1) loose steering and 2) over sensitive / variable assist issues. I have a 99 and had the variable assist issue back when it was new. Not sure what happened but it seemed to go away. Now, 20 years later I do a lift and larger tires, and the issue is back. Front end is completely new and aligned. The steering issue is back with a vengeance. I'm thinking the larger tires have changed the resistance it is sensing? Anyway, I need to fix this once and for all. Feels darty and unsafe. Have to constantly pay attention. Is it officially solved? that replacing GM Part number 26084178 fixes the variable assist issue?
or just delete it.

IIRC you can try unplugging it and seeing if that makes a difference before going through the hassle of installing a new one.
 

JonnyTahoe

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John, you hit the nail on the head. It requires too much concentration on the highway just to keep in lane because there is no centering feel. It does seem to be less of an issue since I installed to Hydra Boost. (How can it be Hydro Boost when there's no water in it? Hmmm?)
I just bought a '00 Yukon from Texas that is RWD not 4X4 like my '00 Tahoe. The steering on the Yukon is completely different than the Tahoe as far as the ease of steering the Yukon takes more input at slow speeds than the Tahoe might have something to do with 2 wheel drive vs 4X4 not sure but the two are very different that is for sure. I actually like the ease of the Tahoe better at slow speeds.
 

Jkittre777

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Having the same issue. All parts are new and the steering is still so sensitive I can even look away at the rear view mirror for fear the car will go off the road. The power steering is just to strong. Zero feedback. Has anyone tried restricting the flow? If so, what side you use?
 

JonnyTahoe

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Having the same issue. All parts are new and the steering is still so sensitive I can even look away at the rear view mirror for fear the car will go off the road. The power steering is just to strong. Zero feedback. Has anyone tried restricting the flow? If so, what side you use?
You eventually get use to it but it takes a while.
 

exp500

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If your switch to Hydroboost helped, AND your brakes require little foot pressure, you could try the shim kit to reduce pump pressure. Bill's hotrod co kit #1001. As someone else stated, Caster is the key to wandering if no worn parts. Steering stabilizers should have been factory on all these trucks.
There were a few comments that sounded like the EVO system used on 97's and 98's. ( i've never seen a 99 with EVO, But if you have wires at P/S pump then you have it).Evo is best disabled by a new power steering hose bypassing EVO valve (from a 96).
Adjusting the Nut/Allen screw on steering box should be done with engine running so you can hear if pump goes "on pressure". Thats too much. Box should be adjusted on bench, but if you are careful and use minimum adjustments.......
Hope this helps. P/m me for a saginaw p/s reference.
 

Jkittre777

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So I finally got tired of white knuckling on long trips so I fixed the problem 100%. I replaced the orifice on the back of the power steering pump. It’s called a “Mustang 2 power steering flow valve”
P/N 91032918. Made by
“ Speedway Motors”.
I ordered it on Amazon. I am super stoked!!! 100% fixed the sensitive steering.
 

Rocket Man

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So I finally got tired of white knuckling on long trips so I fixed the problem 100%. I replaced the orifice on the back of the power steering pump. It’s called a “Mustang 2 power steering flow valve”
P/N 91032918. Made by
“ Speedway Motors”.
I ordered it on Amazon. I am super stoked!!! 100% fixed the sensitive steering.
It’s for a Mustang 2?
 

Fless

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I'd be worried that reducing the pressure would affect braking assist.
 

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