About Van Expertise I can answer most questions concerning 4X4 engine, drive line, suspension, electrical, and fuel, both diesel and gasoline.
Ford, GM, and Dodge, old and new.
Experience I have been maintaining a fleet of approximately 55 light, medium and heavy vehicles for over 20 years. Most are 4X4 pickups and off road fire fighting trucks. Some vans, wagons, sport utility, and personnel transport vehicles. Diesel and gas. Major and minor repairs due to extremely severe duty.
I'd like to get your insight into a problem with the steering on my 1998 Pontiac Montana. I believe that either the steering rack or power steering pump is the culprit and would like your opinion based on the stymptoms.
The steering responds as though someone were holding the wheel to prevent me from turning. With much effort, the wheel eventually "frees" and allows me to complete the turn. It seems to occur less frequently at slower speeds - 25 mph and below. The problem occurs during at least 80% of turns and both right and left turns. It has been getting progressively worse.
The steering pump sounds as though it is "laboring" during the "fight" to turn in a similar manner as when you turn the steering wheel all the way to the right or left when it is prone to make a whining sounds.
I would like to avoid replacing the steering pump to only learn the steering rack was really the problem.
Thank you,
Brian
Answer Hi Brian,
Have you checked the ball joints to see if it is just taking all the power to turn them?
You could disconnect the tie rod ends, to isolate the wheels from the rack. If the rack is the problem, it will still require a lot of power to move it.
