Jerky Steering

ChadLee · Post by **ChadLee** » 19 Feb 2018, 11:47

My 1998 V70 is having some "jerky" or "sticky" steering issues. I have done tie-rods, control arms, sway bar end links, and full strut/spring assembly replacement. It sounds as if the there is a rubber gasket rubbing in or near the steering column. Is flushing the fluid a good place to start? Could this be a cv joint issue? Any tips are greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance.

Post by **sleddriver** » 19 Feb 2018, 12:41

How old is the fluid?
Flushing it out (thoroughly) is a great place to start.

Post by **scot850** » 19 Feb 2018, 12:43

There is a plastic sleeve down at the floor on the steering column. It passes through a rubber boot and when it becomes dry it squeaks. Try a little silicon oil or vaseline on the point where they meet and see if that fixes the squeak.

As to the sticky steering is could be the rack or pump failing. I am not an expert in diagnosing that so maybe for safety sake refer to someone that can see the car to diagnose the issue..

Neil.

ChadLee · Post by **ChadLee** » 19 Feb 2018, 13:37

sleddriver wrote: ↑19 Feb 2018, 12:41 How old is the fluid?
Flushing it out (thoroughly) is a great place to start.

I have never flushed it and been driving the car for 5 years.

Post by **sleddriver** » 19 Feb 2018, 22:01

ChadLee wrote: ↑19 Feb 2018, 13:37
sleddriver wrote: ↑19 Feb 2018, 12:41 How old is the fluid?
Flushing it out (thoroughly) is a great place to start.
I have never flushed it and been driving the car for 5 years.

Five years is enough.
Drop some on a white paper towel. If it's dark red, brick red, has black particles in it, or smells burnt, etc. it's time for a flush. "Jerkiness" can also be due to a failing pump or rack or both.

ChadLee · Post by **ChadLee** » 20 Feb 2018, 06:43

Can you test for a failing pump or rack?

Is this a job that I can do in my driveway?

Thank you!

WhatAmIDoing · Post by **WhatAmIDoing** » 20 Feb 2018, 09:07

ChadLee wrote: ↑20 Feb 2018, 06:43 Can you test for a failing pump or rack?

Is this a job that I can do in my driveway?

Thank you!

Put front of car on jack stands. Inspect rack for leaks. Clean all the oil and crud off the rack. Start the car. Turn the wheel full lock to full lock several times. Listen carefully and pay attention to how the steering feels. There should be no resistance since you've taken all the weight off the steering tires. If it sounds like the pumps groaning (unreasonably loud), you hear squeaking, feel binding, you have a problem. Shut off the engine, crawl back under the car and inspect the rack for leaks. This isn't a comprehensive test, but should at least point you in the direction of the problem.

EDIT: Also turn the wheel with the engine off and see how it feels without power steering. It should be easy and smooth to turn with the front tires in the air.

ChadLee · Post by **ChadLee** » 02 Mar 2018, 06:41

There is a U joint on the engine side of the steering rack. I sprayed that with Deep Creep (Sea Foam lubricant/penetrating) and let it sit overnight. That made all the difference in the world this morning. Am I driving on borrowed time or is this something that I can do as needed and will be just fine? Is there a better more permanent lube to use in this situation? Thank you.