1994 ZJ Power Steering Problems Jeep Grand Cherokee

[snofellow2003]

Hi, I have this problem and need some help diagnosing whats wrong. Yesterday I was doing some doughnuts in some dirt/ light mud. In the middle of a doughnut, my 1994 Jeep Grand Cherokee (6 cyl. 4.0L) lost power steering. Now, especially when at idle, or when parking, it is really hard to turn the steering wheel. There is also a low pitched whine when I turn the wheel. When I turn the wheel all the way, hitting the bump-stops, I hear a loud "vibrating" noise- it kinda sounds like the fan hitting something(but it isnt). When this happens, the power steering pump and hose that comes out of the top of the pump/ reservoir vibrate pretty fiercely. Another thing that I noticed is that when I am going very slow (5 mph +/-), like when i'm parking, I can shift int neutral and rev the engine up a little and that makes it a LOT easier to turn the wheel. That is why I think the problem may be in the power steering pump. I have the correct level of P/S fluid, so that isn't the problem. Although the fluid is a dark brown, indicating that it is dirty. Could this be the problem?
IF ANYONE COULD HELP ME DIAGNOSE THIS PROBLEM, PLEASE POST A REPLY OR E-MAIL ME AT [email protected]. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
-Chris

[Cam7]

Ckeck your belt tension, if thats not it it may be your pump.

[dksob81]

Yes I agree with Cam. make sure it is not too loose, turn the AC on and look at the belt if it is loose it will flap around u will notice it. also make sure it is not to tight, this will put extra tension on Crank pulley, water Pump which can cause damage and also power Steering pump, which will also damge the pump

[snofellow2003]

Hey guys, is there any special technique to checking the belt tension? When the car is off, I pushed on the belt and it seems to pretty tight. It doesn't seem like there would be any way that it would be able to flap around on the pully.... any suggestions???
thanks

[dksob81]

well u need a belt tension guage to get correct reading. if it does not flap around when u have the AC on then it isn't loose, u will notice it flapping around when the AC is on if it is stretched or loose.

but it could be too tight. I suggest getting a Belt tension guage. Nippondenso or borroughs belt tension guage. I think u might be able to get one from Autozone. they loan tools for free (well u have to put a deposit on the tool, but u get it back)