Heavy Steering

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Mon 14 Apr 2003 20:30
Heavy Steering - Carl
The steering on my 98 Primera TD 97,000 mile is suddenly getting heavier

I have checked the tyre pressures, and the PAS fluid level is OK
PAS pump belt tension seems ok, can't access longest length of the belt from the top of engine, will check properly at the weekend thorough the wheelarch.

Assuming it is not the belt being too loose, as I can't hear the belt slipping, I guess it must be the PAS pump or the rack.

Is this likely at this mileage?, and what are the likely costs for replacement
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Tue 15 Apr 2003 08:47
Heavy Steering - Cliff Pope
Has the fluid ever been changed? It is sometimes worth flushing it out and replacing.
Methods vary I think, but basically you need to divert the return pipe into a container, and pour in new oil while the engine idles, until the discharged oil runs clear.
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Wed 16 Apr 2003 11:58
Heavy Steering - Crinkly Dave
There can be 2 causes. (1) faulty power steering, or (2)a tight steering or track rod end joint.

Before changing the oil I would suggest disconnecting the track rod ends and checking that each wheel moves freely.

Then check the belt for the power steering, and its tension.

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