1995 4runner making noise when cold and turning

[nawlinsmom]

My 1995 2WD 4runner has a rather loud rubbing/friction sound and vibration through the steering wheel on cold mornings when I make a turn. It started this year when the weather first started turning cool (in New Orleans), and isn't there on warmer days. It goes away after a few minutes once the vehicle warms up, but seems to stick around longer on very cold days. Any ideas?

[Brian R.]

Welcome to the AF!

My first thought is that you may need to flush your power steering system. You may have contaminated PS fluid.

Here is an example of how to do it:
http://www.toyotanation.com/forum/t19334.html

Although the 4Runner is set up differently, the procedure is similar. I just used a hand pump attached to an electric drill to empty the lines and PS pump reservoir.

All the above is probably wrong if you are getting the noise when going around a corner and no noise when you are turning the steering wheel. When you are able to turn the steering wheel silently and the truck makes noise while driving around the turn, then you are looking at a problem in the drive train.

[fourwd1]

Does it happen only when turning one direction?
Does it happen only when at full lock in one or both directions?