92 Lumina power steering problem

[sophemae]

5 days ago , I had a p/s hose replaced from the rack and pinion to the pump , (I think that's where it went) . It got a hole and started leaking . NOW the cars steering is really tight while driving . While turning , it still feels like power steering , but when going straight it almost feels like the steering wheel won't turn . Could it be the double U-joints in the column going bad , or maybe the joints got screwed up when the mechanic replaced the p/s hose? Local Chevy dealer said $ 175.00 for the double joint kit (just parts , not installed ) . It is up for sale ,but now nobody wants it this way . Thanks ahead of time for any response !!! P.S. ---151,000 miles , rusty ,can only fill gas tank 1/2 full or it leaks, air don't work , left rear door won't open , last 3 years ---a money pit ! I bought it in 93 with only 6000 miles on it .

[richtazz]

IF it didn't have the stiffness before he changed the hose, take it back to him. It sounds like he either didn't bleed the system of air or may have bent/crimped something during the install. It's possible if you drove the car with no fluid due to the leak, you could have damaged the rack.