power steering on Tuscan mk1

[bones dog]

this is my 1st Tuscan, Is it normal for the steering to feel heavy, when manouvering at a slow speed.I have noticed this especially when parking.

[m3jappa]

Compared to something like a newish merc then yes It does feel pretty heavy when parking. I suppose it depends what your comparing against.

[bones dog]

I am comparing to a large car like a Galaxy or Ford kuga.

[Cooper Green]

My 2003 Mk1 power steering causes no concern, its an awful lot lighter than the previous pre cat Griff, i tend to find that the poor turning circle and wide front tyres make it seem a bit of a handful when manouevering at low speeds.

[dvs_dave]

bones dog said:

I am comparing to a large car like a Galaxy or Ford kuga.

Compared to these, yes it will feel heavy, but not hard work. Try turning the engine off (whilst stationary of course ) and the steering should become extremely heavy. This will determine if the power assistance is working or not. I'd also check the fluid level just to be on the safe side.

[coco79]

Check there are no leaks..I had the same issue, only found the steering to be heavy at low speeds or when parking, then realised there was a slow leak that got worse...

[nrick]

also check the tension on the belt as they do stretch over time.

[coco79]

I managed to get the cost of a replacement steering rack covered with the AA policy I had in place, no issues with them, they sorted it quite promptly..certainly a policy I would recommend taking out, much better than other companies providing 'worthless' warranties.

[MPETT]

Cooper Green said:

My 2003 Mk1 power steering causes no concern, its an awful lot lighter than the previous pre cat Griff, i tend to find that the poor turning circle and wide front tyres make it seem a bit of a handful when manouevering at low speeds.

The early pre march 01 cars used the same ps rack as the griff, chim and cerby. That may explain the similarity with your old griff.

If the old griff was a non ps rack, then ignore all the above;)

[bones dog]

Tried the steering standing still engine running turn to the left easier than to the right

[Walford]

bones dog said:

Tried the steering standing still engine running turn to the left easier than to the right

If it turns one way easier than the other, it needs rebuilding

Probably not road worthy

[bones dog]

Had new rack fitted 5 months ago by previous owner i will have it checked, thanks for info will let you know

[Walford]

bones dog said:

Had new rack fitted 5 months ago by previous owner i will have it checked, thanks for info will let you know

Try loosening 2 of the bolts off

if the shims are not corect you can be twisting it, and pulling it out of shape

[bones dog]

Thanks will try it

[Walford]

bones dog said:

Thanks will try it

did you try slackening the mounting bolts off

[bones dog]

yes tried slackening the bolts off but still the same prob,so removed rack last weekend sent back to power steering work shop, when they put rack on jig steering to the right was working only 25%.This prob was due to small piece of rubber stuck in valve.I will renew pipes before refitting.
Thanks for all advice and comments