LS-Tour Steering problem

[huck369]

My Power steering seems to be malfunctioning...
It seems to be rather stiff turning, not like it isn't working at all, just about twice as stiff as it used to be.
And doesn't return to center while going down the road, I have to actually turn it back to center.
It will stay where I turn it to.

What I have checked:

The belt is tight, and in good condition.
It is full of fluid.
The rack was replaced last year.(pretty sure it’s not the problem)
There aren't any leaks.
It doesn't squeal.

I don’t have the Factory Shop Manuals, so I need some help, as it must be related to the “Speed Sensitive Steering” of the LS-Tour/Lsi.

So if anybody could scan the pages on that system (Beav?) or offer some insight, it would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance,

[Subafreak]

You could check the front end peaces to make sure their not seized. Also the strut mounts, I'v had that problem with Caravans so, it's worth a check and cheaper than a rack.

[svxistentialist]

Huck

Don't have a scanner, but from what I read:

Steering stiff, with all the things you checked being OK, indicate a problem with the steering solenoid, harness or ECU. Most likely solenoid.

The steering light will give a check code if you do the diagnostic in the footwell, I think Randy has the instructions for diagnostics in his locker.

It instructs to check fuses # 8 & 15 in F/B and 25 in M/B first.

If it is the solenoid, you probably should also be seeing the steering warning lamp on.

For stiff steering, it suggests Open circuit at the solenoid. This should throw code 2, i.e. two blinks, followed by 1.2 second gap, repeated by two blinks etc.

Hope this helps,

Joe

[huck369]

Thanks Joe,
Will check those fuses tomorrow.
Haven't had a "steering warning light" blink, but will check Randys locker for the details on checking it.

[Beav]

If the wheels don't return to center that indicates binding, which isn't a power assist problem. You need to raise both front wheels off the ground and systematically work towards finding the binding part(s). If the tires aren't underinflated ( ) I'd start by disconnecting the two outer tie rods from the knuckles and turn the struts side-to-side to notice any difference in effort required. If they turn with the same effort then you should concentrate on the tie rod ends and if they're good to go check the rack for binding. You haven't been four-wheeling down there, have you?

[huck369]

Originally posted by Beav
If the wheels don't return to center that indicates binding, which isn't a power assist problem. You need to raise both front wheels off the ground and systematically work towards finding the binding part(s). If the tires aren't underinflated ( ) I'd start by disconnecting the two outer tie rods from the knuckles and turn the struts side-to-side to notice any difference in effort required. If they turn with the same effort then you should concentrate on the tie rod ends and if they're good to go check the rack for binding. You haven't been four-wheeling down there, have you?

Nope, no 4 wheeling down here, as a matter of fact have hardly driven her since the weather has gotten bad.
Will try to check the front end out today.