Volvo Repair: Steering, volvo 850 glt, power steering fluid

Question
I own a 1993 volvo 850 glt.  I am having a problem with my steering. It feels as if I lost my power steering. Turning is very stiff. It is not a solid stiffness through the turn. For a full turn of the wheel it goes through four points. Smooth-stiff-smooth-stiff etc... I changed the power steering pump and it was not that. The fluid is up to level and the pully is turning fine. I also bleed the system. Any ideas what may cause this?

Answer
A bad pump usually emits a whining noise. If it was a belt you would hear squeaks or groaning. This condition sounds like its coming from your steering rack. I would try using a synthetic power steering fluid to see if it helps. Your rack may be on it's way out, the fluid may help prolong it a little more.

I assume you've checked the mounting of the rack and it's not loose. Also recheck the column to may sure it's not binding anywhere.