Power Steering Problem

[Cope6k]

When turning either direction the power steering is stiff then jerks a little then stiff then jerks a little all the way to the stops. I replaced the pump, serpentine belt and checked the fuse and the problem remains. There are no leaks anywhere.

Any ideas? Maybe the rack is bad? Is there a filter screen in the reservoir? Steering shaft binding? Any thoughts are much appreciated

Thanks.
Jim
2004 XC70
150,000 miles

[chrism]

Have you tried flushing and filling the P/S system with fresh Pentosin fluid?

Also, I found on my wife's 05 S80 that I need to fill the reservoir slightly above the full mark or else the system will suck air particularly when turning hard left and the fluid sloshes to the right exposing the pump feed port. When I flushed it the other day I was surprised at the flow rate.

[93SCMax]

Have you tried flushing and filling the P/S system with fresh Pentosin fluid?

+1

If you aren't using the "green" PS fluid (Pentosin), you will have a problem. If the fluid is original, with that many miles and years of service, you will have a problem.

Good luck. Changing fluid is a relatively inexpensive fix.

[oragex]

On top of the above there is a steering column coupler - the lower one in the engine bay - that likes to seize. Can be checked by disconnecting the steering column above the pedals - 14mm bolt, removing the rubber boot at the floor (replace the small bearing inside while there), then shackign the coupler by hand.

The reservoirs also had a problem with a piece breaking loose inside

[dcm0123]

I also had problems with the coupler. Spray with WD40 to see if it helps. If it does, you know for sure what the problem is. Replace it because it will happen again very soon. Not hard to replace. Couple of hours work.