Powersteering problem.... help!

[jdlmkviii]

Hi, I just recently purchased a '94 C/K 1500 but it's all of a sudden making this noise from the powersteering.... thought it was the fluid but the fluid is full.... any other ideas?

[abaird]

power steering pumps are notorius for making noise. It might just be wearing out. Mine whines a little now and then.

[jdlmkviii]

Yeah I was thinking either the pump or the rack.... I also realized it's leaking fluid now and I fill it up but it didn't do much... and it's not really just a noise, it's like a real loud whine and it's a lot tougher to steer. Any other common problems with these things?

[abaird]

when I would go around gentle corners at highway speeds the steering wheel would get really loose and almost jerk to the direction of the turn. That would wake you up if you weren't paying attention. I replaced the rotation sensor on the steering column and that fixed it. I also replaced the idler arm, idler arm frame support, and pitman arm because once I fixed the sensor it pulled to the right. Drives straight now. Also, one of the pressure hoses on my power steering pump had a leak and when it would get low the pump would make noise. but thats fixed now too.

[phipps]

Originally Posted by abaird

when I would go around gentle corners at highway speeds the steering wheel would get really loose and almost jerk to the direction of the turn. That would wake you up if you weren't paying attention. I replaced the rotation sensor on the steering column and that fixed it. I also replaced the idler arm, idler arm frame support, and pitman arm because once I fixed the sensor it pulled to the right. Drives straight now. Also, one of the pressure hoses on my power steering pump had a leak and when it would get low the pump would make noise. but thats fixed now too.

My truck does the sudden pulling in a turn. Where is the "rotation sensor" located and about how much did it cost you?


Thanks,

Gary

[abaird]

it costs about $60 from a GM dealer. Unbolt the steering shaft under the dash. There is only one bolt. Then you can slide the shaft outward, only need about an inch. The sensor is located on the shaft up under the dash. It is easy to find, just look for an electronic device around the shaft itself. disconnect it and slide it off the shaft. Remember to disconnect your battery first. It only took me about 15 minutes. If you have any more questions, just ask.