HEAVY power steering.

I haven't had the pleasure of driving another passport/ rodeo. My power steering is really heavy in my 97 4X4 Passport. It is a little tough to turn when not moving. It makes no noise at all and doesn't vibrate. There is fluid in it.
Any ideas.
Peace

hallboy, the steering in my 93 rodeo 4x4 is very, very light compared to my 2001 2wd Somona. Check the steering components (tierods, center links, pitman arm, etc..) for wear and then otherwise I would say you just need a new power steering pump.

You really do need to find a similar vehicle to test drive cuz its very subjective to say if the steering is heavy or not. When not moving, I'd say my steering is slightly on the heavy side, compared to say a honda accord or a lexus. But, it is way lighter than my old 93 VW GTI. If you're not hearing any groaning and there are no leaks then I'd say you're ok.

You can also check to make sure that the wire to the back of the power steering pump is connected. That connection boosts the PS pump's power under low speed (parking lot) conditions.

pumps do go, but usually you will hear some noises and other indications. in addition to the steering components as suggested, i'd first do the obvious -- check your tire pressure. next misalignment can be a cause, do you have other indications of improper frontend alignment?
finally, You can also check to make sure that the wire to the back of the power steering pump is connected. That connection boosts the PS pump's power under low speed (parking lot) conditions. that wire ought to be connected to the pressure switch, which sends a signal to the computer to up the engine rpm when there is high pump pressure (such as full turn lock), so the engine doesn't lug. do you notice either the rpm increase or rpm decrease when fully turning your wheels during a midblock 3point turn?

//bc

Thanks for the help guys. After closer inspection of the belts I found them all to be new except that one. So for $8 I fixed it. I do need to put some wrench time into the front end to but I just rotated the tires and all is well.
Thanks again,
Ian

hallboy, the steering in my 93 rodeo 4x4 is very, very light compared to my 2001 2wd Somona. Check the steering components (tierods, center links, pitman arm, etc..) for wear and then otherwise I would say you just need a new power steering pump.


I find this odd. I've driven newer Sonomas and even huge newer Suburbans and they are MUCH easier to steer than my 94 Rodeo.

I like the steering on rodeos. Actually get some road feel with it. Much better then the over powered steering of older american cars (moms old '77 chevy wagon comes to mind). Even the steering on my work van is over powered.