1997 Z71 Steering Problem

[craigp40]

I've got a 1997 Chevy Z71 with 89k on it. The last couple of years my steering has been acting kind of weird, so I've finally decided to try to fix it.

Here's the scenario:
This problem happens during cold weather (40 and below). If I'm on the highway and getting off on a ramp with a fairly steep curve, I'll notice that as I'm turning the wheel there is a point in the turn that the steering becomes extremely easy to turn. If you're not paying attention, it could be pretty dangerous because you are putting constant pressure to turn it, then have it become very easy causing you to jerk the steering wheel. The wheels turn fine, but it's almost as if the steering pump gives you too much help when it happens. BTW, this doesn't happen at all when the weather is warm. I'm guessing it has something to do with the steering pump and increased oil thickness from the cold weather.

I know that probably wasn't very clear, but has anyone else experienced this problem?

[bowtie1]

Same problem on my 97 2 wheel drive & my dads 98 Z71 A problem on a lot of 97 some 98 full size chevy trucks. It only bad when it is cold out but not as bad in the summer.There is a sensor at the bottom of the steering column called the steering position sensor change this and your problem solved.The sensor controls the variable ratio steering box. The sensor is in the end of the column above the coupler, no need to take the dash apart or remove the column, remove the bolt out of the coulper push the gromet & shaft through the fire wall until you get enough room to remove the sensor unplug the wires and pull the sensor out then reverse the procedure. The sensor is about $50 through GM

[Slideways07]

Your truck comes equiped with a speed sensitive steering unit and the sending unit is bad have it replaced and all's well. Its cold up here in Alaska and mine was doing it constently when my truck hit 72000 miles. Your dealer should be able to replace it the same day u bring it in. Easy fix

[gmsmallblockguy]

Originally Posted by Slideways07

Your truck comes equiped with a speed sensitive steering unit and the sending unit is bad have it replaced and all's well. Its cold up here in Alaska and mine was doing it constently when my truck hit 72000 miles. Your dealer should be able to replace it the same day u bring it in. Easy fix

Vote #3 for the steering sensor. It's supposed to step up the assist at low speed like parking lot speed to make it easier to turn the wheel at low speed. The symptoms of a bad one are exactly what you have stated.

[craigp40]

Thanks for the info guys! Hopefully, I'll be able to change the sensor in the coming weeks. This is the only problem I've ever had on this truck, so doing this will get my truck like new again. Not bad for 89k miles.