Do Silverados have power steering problems?

[Bungee]

I have a 2000 Z71 Offroad with 112,000 miles on it. I baby this thing, but lately I sometimes notice a slight "friction" when turning left--feels a lot like when power steering fluid is low.

But the power steering resevoir is full. And the steering fluid is brand new.

The "friction" feel is ONLY when turning left. And it doesn't happen all the time--but when it does, it's usually most pronounced when the engine has run for a long time.

I recall some members talking about power steering problems with the Silvys. And I've heard GM may have a recall coming up with the hydraulics system.

I'm wondering if a bolt has worked itself loose. Haven't thoroughly checked out that theory yet, though.

I'd like to head off a problem if possible. Any idea as to what's going on here?

[busta]

just a thought do a check for a TSB maybe goggle it? but i havent heard nothing..sorry

[rrousou]

You sure bet they do...its called rack and pinion steering...spelled JUNK. maybe good for cars but not for trucks. I've replaced a lot of these units in the past but cant recall ever replacing the recirc ball type. other than an ocaisonal seal. I believe the 2500 series still have the heavy steering system

[busta]

well bungee isnt too specific but when he says z71 i assume 4x4? there for even 1500 came with steering box,pitman arm,idlerarm,relay rod to tie rod ends...the 2 wd drive comes with rack.

[zonk3939]

Originally Posted by Bungee

I have a 2000 Z71 Offroad with 112,000 miles on it. I baby this thing, but lately I sometimes notice a slight "friction" when turning left--feels a lot like when power steering fluid is low.

But the power steering resevoir is full. And the steering fluid is brand new.

The "friction" feel is ONLY when turning left. And it doesn't happen all the time--but when it does, it's usually most pronounced when the engine has run for a long time.

I recall some members talking about power steering problems with the Silvys. And I've heard GM may have a recall coming up with the hydraulics system.

I'm wondering if a bolt has worked itself loose. Haven't thoroughly checked out that theory yet, though.

I'd like to head off a problem if possible. Any idea as to what's going on here?

Its absolutely the steering gear box.My 99 Silverado did the same exact thing..then it got so hard to turn left it was like it had no power steering.I changed the Steering Gear box ($199 @ Autozone) and its perfect now..easy to change too.

[Bungee]

Originally Posted by busta

well bungee isnt too specific but when he says z71 i assume 4x4? there for even 1500 came with steering box,pitman arm,idlerarm,relay rod to tie rod ends...the 2 wd drive comes with rack.

You're right. Should've specified it's the 4x4 Offroad 1500.

Good news if a replacement can be had for $200 at Autozone, AND is an easy install.

[DonnieKropp]

Originally Posted by zonk3939

Its absolutely the steering gear box.My 99 Silverado did the same exact thing..then it got so hard to turn left it was like it had no power steering.I changed the Steering Gear box ($199 @ Autozone) and its perfect now..easy to change too.

What is involved in changing this gearbox? Can someone with general mechanical skills do it or do I need anything special?

[99redsilverado]

Originally Posted by Bungee

You're right. Should've specified it's the 4x4 Offroad 1500.

Good news if a replacement can be had for $200 at Autozone, AND is an easy install.

yall show me a z71 thats not 4x4 , all of them are.

[KCO]

Your situation sounds alarmingly similar to mine - exact same symptoms. I just had the gearbox, pitman arm, idler & wheel bearings replaced on my 2000 Z71 8 months ago by a GM dealer. At the time I had around 85k miles on it The Genuine GM gearbox has already gone out again with around 104k miles. Of course Generous Motors only warranties the replacements for one year, 12,000 miles. I hear that the re-man's have the same warrenty & are much cheaper.

I'm going to try replacing this one on my own.

[masapell]

Originally Posted by 99redsilverado

yall show me a z71 thats not 4x4 , all of them are.

Great point! Now, I have been meaning to ask this, but where did you get those great looking wheels? And, how much did that set you back?

Sincerely,

Matt

[silverado122775]

I have about 140K miles on my 2000 Silverado Z71. I am noticing some friction in my stering as well. Mostly when I am at a stand still, it is almost as if the power sterling is gone.. After reading the posts, I am wondering if I am having the same problem? It's not all the time though

[scottZ71]

I have 2002 Z71 with the exact same problem while the truck is stopped or moving slowly. I had it in the dealership twice and each time they would look at me like I am crazy and say they are not able to duplicate it. Each time the dealer told me to check the air in then tires. From the amount of pressure I had to use to turn the wheel I would have been on the bead.

[dimondros]

I have a 2000 Silverado 1500, and am just getting the 5th power steering pump installed - but on test drive, the problem hasn't been resolved. For about 10 yrs, the power steering is reduced greatly or is completely inactive at low RPM (under 1000). Parking and maneuvering is almost impossible. Each time, the mechanics tell me it is the power steering pump, and while it is improved somewhat after replacement, it gradually becomes more difficult to turn the wheel, down to full on manual steering. What is the relationship between the level of the RPM, and the function of the pump? could there be a blockage, or some restriction to the creation of pressure in the pump? Please help if you can, I'm not a mechanic, but I can understand whatever you tell me, and appreciate any suggestions. thank you!

[j cAT]

Originally Posted by dimondros

I have a 2000 Silverado 1500, and am just getting the 5th power steering pump installed - but on test drive, the problem hasn't been resolved. For about 10 yrs, the power steering is reduced greatly or is completely inactive at low RPM (under 1000). Parking and maneuvering is almost impossible. Each time, the mechanics tell me it is the power steering pump, and while it is improved somewhat after replacement, it gradually becomes more difficult to turn the wheel, down to full on manual steering. What is the relationship between the level of the RPM, and the function of the pump? could there be a blockage, or some restriction to the creation of pressure in the pump? Please help if you can, I'm not a mechanic, but I can understand whatever you tell me, and appreciate any suggestions. thank you!

how often do you grease ALL those front end steering components ? also replacing the power steering fluid is needed every 7yrs . you may have a belt issue tension-er or the wrong belt slippage when turning. the steering gear box may be worn . this happens when the wheels wack curbs or are turned into them .

[dimondros]

Originally Posted by j cAT

how often do you grease ALL those front end steering components ? also replacing the power steering fluid is needed every 7yrs . you may have a belt issue tension-er or the wrong belt slippage when turning. the steering gear box may be worn . this happens when the wheels wack curbs or are turned into them .

I'm sure I haven't had the front end steering components greased as often as needed, and the power steering fluid probably only got changed each time a new pump was installed. This time, a new steering box was installed in addition to the new (recon) pump. Still no better - they have kept the truck because I can't physically turn it at low RPM (like turning a corner in town, or parking). They are going to try another pump (not recon, - factory new), but I'm afraid this won't help either. Any other ideas? Thanks so much for you time and thoughts.