1997 Other Chevrolet Models Tough steering turns/pump

ARMY_ORDANCE83

MEMBER
1997 CHEVROLET
V8
4WD
AUTOMATIC
150,000 MILES

I have a 1997 chevrolet K1500 4X4 truck that has a problem with the steering. At times, the steering is hard. If I place the trans in neutral as I turn the corner and raise the RPM's, the turn becomes easier. I replaced the p/s pump and the problem still occurs. I'm unsure of the correct terms, but there was a "control valve" or a "bypass valve" that is located in the rear bottom of the pump where a sensor is slide over it. I replaced the o-rings with the round o-rings that came with the kit although the deteroiting o-rings that came out looked to be square o-rings. The pulley was takin off and installed correctly. The system was purched correctly and topped off the following day. The problem still persists.

1 Reply

KHLOW2008

MECHANIC
41,814 POSTS

Hi army_ordance83,

Thank you for the donation.

Increasing the rpm helps the power assist means the pump is not providing sufficient pressure. Possible causes are :

1. Faulty P/S pump. Was the replaced pump new or used?

2. Faulty pressure switch.

3. Loose belting. Check the belt tension and also the pulleys for fault.

4. Faulty power steering rack. It could be leaking internally between the 2 sides or the valve body is faulty.

O rings are all round but after being installed for extended, they deform to be consistent with the area they were installed so you have nothing to worry.