Steering Help

[oliver87k5]

Having some steering issues on my 87 k5 wondering if anyone has any advice? I've replaced the power steering pump, new fluid, and replaced the gear box. No noises when trying to turn just real hard to turn when slowing down or in park.

 

[Ricko1966]

What size tires,and how slow are we talking about.

 

[oliver87k5]

35s and when I start to hit the brakes and when in park it just does not want to turn. takes way more effort than it should.

 

[DoubleDingo]

Power steering shouldn't be hard to turn at all, even sitting still. Low fluid level will cause that, but there's usually an audible whine/grind sound from the pump while turning.

 

[oliver87k5]

there’s no noises it’s just extremely hard to turn.

 

[DoubleDingo]

Was the belt reinstalled? If so, is it adjusted properly? If the pump isn't pumping, that would also cause it to be hard to steer, similar to losing engine power while moving.

 

[75gmck25]

One simple check - make sure all the air is out of the system.
GM book says to jack it up with both front wheels off the ground. Then start the engine and slowly turn the steering wheel full lock to lock at least ten times.

At the same time I would have someone else turn the steering wheel and you check all the linkage for any looseness or binding. For example, since you have issues when braking, maybe something shifts and starts to bind as the truck weight shifts forward.

 

[chris3353]

Having some steering issues on my 87 k5 wondering if anyone has any advice? I've replaced the power steering pump, new fluid, and replaced the gear box. No noises when trying to turn just real hard to turn when slowing down or in park.

If you have gearbox issues,,, call Lares.

PowerSteeringGears

www.larescorp.com

I have used them on the last 5 builds and everytime is perfect. If you buy a new box,, you get a (lifetime) warranty i think,, I have a leak on one after 5 years and sure enough,, they sent me another new box.

In a gearbox there is a T-bar the dictates the force requires to turn.. To light and the truck will be tender on the highway.. to firm and it is a bear to turn.

Most rebuilder reach in a bucket and don't check. OEM changed torsion bars depending on load, pitman arm length etc.