Power steering troubleshooting

[GT6k]

So my power steering went intermittent for a couple of journeys (would work once warmed up) but has now gone completely. There's plenty of fluid in the reservoir and i have tried the bleeding procedure as per the manual. What next, how do I determine whether it is the dreaded key way or the dreaded rack ?

[Alistair H.]

Ouch. Check out ukkid35 posts. he has posted some "dreaded" piccies of his woes.

Better get it fixed for Harewood!

[ukkid35]

With the engine running, shine a light down towards the pump and the coupling immediately in front, and you will be able to see whether it is turning.

This is what you are looking for



And this is what you will probably find when you take it apart.



Here you can see the remainder of the Woodruff key in the shaft, which is fortunately undamaged.



Access from underneath is not to horrible, there are only 4 hex headed bolts holding the pump in place, and you won't need to remove any pipes or hoses. Try not to lose any of the sleeves that go on each of the three pins of the triangular coupling.

[GT6k]

The coupling is rotating with the engine OK, the rack feels very stiff it just doesn't want to move. I have also checked out UKKids idea of kitty litter in the UJs and although there was some there it wasn't interfering. with the movement. I think i will get the steering shaft out first and check the UJs.

[GT6k]

YAY - top UJ seized solid, that was easy.
Now where is that alternative parts list.

[Alistair H.]

GT6k said:

YAY - top UJ seized solid, that was easy.
Now where is that alternative parts list.

Happy Days. Now get that entry in.

[ukkid35]

When I refitted the top UJ I managed to knock out the nylon retainer at the other end of the steering column. In the end I used a tiny cable tie to hold it in place because it kept popping out.

[GT6k]

Alistair

Unfortunately the late summer Harewood falls on my sons birthday and he will insist on parties etc rather than watching me scoot around the track. I have an entry in for Shelsley though, so crossed fingers for that.