Power Steering not working

[EyeAmRed2U]

2004 Buick Rainier, V8.
New Rack and Pinion and steering hoses. Power Steering was working fine now hard to turn in both directions. No lesks, fluid level fine. If I raise the front end and take load off, the wheel turns fine. The pump isn't grinding or whining? Is there an electronic module that controls any part of the pump or is the pump just bad? any thoughts on this is appreciated.

Ken

 

[Sparky]

Does it feel like there is no power assist at all, or just weak power assist?

There is no electronic control to the power steering, it is a purely hydraulic system.

 

[Mooseman]

It could be that the pump was marginal with the old rack and unable to provide adequate pressure with the new one.

Why was the rack replaced?

 

[smt 59]

Did you bleed the system after the re and re?

 

[EyeAmRed2U]

The old rack was replaced due to a collapse of the internal systems. Hard steer to the left, easy to the right. New rack, system bled properly. I tend to think the pump is now failed as well, just wanted to make sure there was no electronic control to this system. I think I will replace the pump and bleed the system. Thanks for all the input.

Does it feel like there is no power assist at all, or just weak power assist?

There is no electronic control to the power steering, it is a purely hydraulic system.

When on the highway at 60mph, it feels like it should at low speed, so I would say weak power assist. I can "power brake" the truck and the steering will soften.

 

[Sparky]

If higher engine speeds makes the steering easier, then you've got either a weak pump or you have a partial blockage someplace that the higher pressure from the pump spun at a higher speed can push past a little bit more.

 

[EyeAmRed2U]

If higher engine speeds makes the steering easier, then you've got either a weak pump or you have a partial blockage someplace that the higher pressure from the pump spun at a higher speed can push past a little bit more.

I am going to replace pump, flush the system and bleed the system. Will post results

 

[Mooseman]

I suggest that you flush the system before replacing the pump. That way, all you'll have in the system is fresh fluid.

 

[EyeAmRed2U]

I suggest that you flush the system before replacing the pump. That way, all you'll have in the system is fresh fluid.

Definitely flush first

 

[smt 59]

Good job, let us know how things work out.