QuestionQUESTION: when i turn thesteering wheel at an idle or slow speed it shutters what can the problem be i am planning to leave for vacation and wondering if this is a big problem or not
ANSWER: I would suspect that the power steering belt is a bit loose. Let me know which engine (L) and I can tell you how to tighten it. Also, check the level of fluid in the power steering pump reservoir to see if it is near the 'full' line.
Roland
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QUESTION: it is a 3.3 liter engine also i have a clunking noise in front end when i turn the wheel had inner tie rod replaced but clunk is still ther what do you think
AnswerHi James,
I don't know what would cause a clunking sound. You would have to be at the front end whils a helper turns the steering to try and localize the area where the sound is coming from. Of course turning the steering while at rest is going to be hardest on the parts and may not represent an issue when turning while in motion.
The power steering pump is driven by the same belt that drives the other three accessories (water pump, generator, ac compressor). The power steering pump and its pulley are near the firewall, the upper unit on that side of the engine (the lower pulley is for the water pump). I would inspect the belt for signs of oil/grease, longitudinal cracking along the grooves, glazing, excessive wear, frayed cords. Those would be a basis for replacement. Then have a helper turn the steering wheel with the engine running to see if the belt slips on the power steering pump pulley which would explain the uneven power application, and if so another reason to change the belt.
Changing the belt involves lifting the right wheel to gain access to a plastic panel between the wheel and the belts called a splash shield. It is held in place by 3 screws along the edge. Once the shield is out of the way you will see a round device with a rectangular lug on its edge (located just above the crankshaft pulley) which is the belt tensioner. If you put a wrench on the lug and rotate the round part counter clockwise that will release the tension on the drive belt so you can remove it. Before you remove it carefully sketch the routing of the belt so you can install the new belt in exactly the same manner. Remove the belt and return the tensioner lug to the original position. Clean all the pulley grooves. Put the new belt around all the pulleys except the crankshaft pulley. The rotate the lug counterclockwise again and put the belt around the crankshaft pulley. Then rotate the lug clockwise slowly to release the tensioner and tension the belt. Then verify the belt is properly routed and centered on each pulley. Then start it and check the belt for normal operation. Turn off engine, then install the splash shield and lower the vehicle right wheel.
Test drive it and see how the steering, cooling, charging, and AC are working.
Roland
PS Please 'rate' my answer and where you see the question about 'volunteer of the month' please consider a 'yes' answer if this response proves to be helpful. Thanks
