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1980 power steering jerk

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Old Aug 29, 2010 | 03:48 PM
  #1  
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Default 1980 power steering jerk

I have a 80 corvette that is slightly leaking p/s fluid (only about 10 drops a day) and jerks hard and very quickly to the right when you are driving 20+ mph. It steers normal when you are at low speeds or at idle. Pump does not whine, good belt/tension. It drives normal if you have two hands on the wheel going in a straight line, but in right turns you can feel a slight catch which causes the car to jerk slightly to the right. ONLY TO THE RIGHT. This is when it is worst...when you are driving, lets say 50 mph, and as soon as you take your hands off the wheel, the car jerks (it almost feels like it has a catch in the steering) you into the lane to your right. As soon as you put your hands back on the wheel, you are in control again. It does it every time I am driving (I means its not periodic). Any idea what this could be?
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Old Aug 29, 2010 | 04:53 PM
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When I bought mine it did the same thing. It had a ps leak. Fixed the leak, never had another problem.
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Old Aug 29, 2010 | 04:54 PM
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It sounds like you need to adjust the steering control valve. I believe Jim Shea has papers for this procedure.
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Old Aug 29, 2010 | 05:26 PM
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Definetely power steering control valve. I just went through it.
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Old Aug 29, 2010 | 06:06 PM
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I adjusted it a couple of weeks ago, and no change, still jerks right. So I guess I will just have to replace replace the valve. Anyone know of one available for less than $100.
Also would it be wise to replace the cylinder while I'm at it? I haven't noticed any leaks coming from it, how frequently do these go out?
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Old Aug 29, 2010 | 09:02 PM
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Originally Posted by bholub
I adjusted it a couple of weeks ago, and no change, still jerks right. So I guess I will just have to replace replace the valve. Anyone know of one available for less than $100.
Also would it be wise to replace the cylinder while I'm at it? I haven't noticed any leaks coming from it, how frequently do these go out?
You can replace everything inside the control valve for ~$80.00 or so. I would dis-assemble the valve and inspect it for damage. If the bore on the fluid side is smooth you should be able to rebuild the valve. The sleeve that the ball stud rides in is replaceable if it is worn. All of the stuff on the ball stud side comes in a rebuild kit.

The rebuild kit for the cylinder is pretty basic. The cylinder is sealed so if it leaks badly the rebuild kit may or may not help. If it isn't leaking I would be inclined to give it a spray-can paint restoration for now.



Rick B.
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Old Aug 30, 2010 | 10:18 AM
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We do have the reman valves for $79 exchange, let me know if we can help.

Andrew
800-442-0335
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Old Aug 30, 2010 | 04:10 PM
  #8  
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Have these for a '72? Mine I turned the nut thought it would tighten the seal and stop leaking and now the wheel turns when I start the car... Grrrr Was fine befor I turned that nut. Should have left it alone.
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