Power steering stiffens up when truck warms up

[96-2D-Hoe]

No cooler.
No trans fluid.

I just thought to call Lares and the guy said it could still be a little air in the system. Or otherwise lean toward a new pump.

He has told me to try a bleed procedure where I lift the wheels, discon fuel pump so no start, and start steering wheel in center and slowly move steering out left to right a little at a time while cranking engine over, until I finally get to full lock either way. Obviously not cranking for too long so I don't burn out the starter and checking for foam or bubbles.

I'll give that a go today/ASAP.

Thanks for the help. I'll report back.

 

[OR VietVet]

If that box was put on almost 2 years ago, there is no air in there.

 

[exp500]

That pretty much narrows it down to the pump. Did Lares comment on recommended fluid? I've had 100 Percent success with their rebuilds. It is a vane style pump, so likely bypassing/leaking inside when hot thin fluid used.

 

[96-2D-Hoe]

Thanks for the replies.
Been on for just over a year but hardly any miles. No mention of fluid. I'll try the bleed for the hell of it. Easier than the other options.

 

[96-2D-Hoe]

I just drove 5 miles to get some brake fluid to do my rear brakes. It's 80+ outside but steering was already getting stiff when I got home. Fluid was very hot, but no sign of air/foam in fluid.

Here's my shopping cart. Unless anyone has any better recommendations? No Delco parts available at RA.



PS.
Happy 4th everyone

 

[OR VietVet]

I think you are on the right track but since you said you have had the problem for close to 2 years, since you put the new box on, I still feel there is a suspect problem there.

 

[96-2D-Hoe]

Flushing the fluid has definitely helped a fair amount. I think I may have had this issue to a similar degree before I got fussy after I changed the box and all the steering components. But I had let it get to the point where it was kind of dangerous to drive. Not helped by a ******, lazy mechanic.
PS pump was last replaced under factory warranty apparently for leaking in 2001. It seems acceptable for the moment but it wasn't a very hot day today. PS pump replacement is in my future, along with all the other things I'd like to do. Thanks for the help.