Power steering problem

[billyj7175]

I've got a 83 J-10 w/360 auto....and I'm having some trouble with the power steering. It seems that at idle, the power steering cuts in and out. It's intermittent, and only occurs at idle. Any ideas where I should start?

[Veepster]

is the belt loose? low on fluid? if neither of those I would change the power steering pump....cheap (about $40) and easy to change.....the problems usually occur at idle as that is when the pump is spinning the slowest...

[ElkHunter]

Just based on my experience with PS pumps:

Check for low fluid and a loose belt.

If that's okay, try replacing all the hoses and the fluid.

Basically, the hoses wear out over time and release a lot of gunk into the pump. Replacing the fluid and the hoses may cure the problem--again, based on my experience.

If it doesn't, then go with a new pump. Either way, you should replace the hoses, which are usually a major part of the problem.

ElkHunter

[Stuka]

When the pump itself goes it normally will start to grown at you. If it isnt...then i would suspenct low fluid/plugged line like the other stated.