1986 steering problem
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 44
Likes: 0
From: Lockport NY
1986 steering problem
Hi i just got my corvette, 1986 tpi, and it was sitting for awhile. The problem is that when i turn to the left the steering is sticking (slowing down and getting tigheter) for a second, then continuing. It seems to be in the same spot everytime i turn. I changed the power steering fluid and it was oil black and metallic. I put new fluid in but im sure its still a lil grimy. I was just wondering if this is a power steering pump, or rack and pinion problem?
Former Vendor
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 2,482
Likes: 3
From: Carmichael ca
Probably a bad rack. Does the problem go away as you drive? Sometimes a bad rack will act up more when they are cold. My car used to do this, then I changed the fluid to synthetic and now it doesn't.
Racer
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 427
Likes: 0
From: Stillwater OK, Fun City USA
Hi i just got my corvette, 1986 tpi, and it was sitting for awhile. The problem is that when i turn to the left the steering is sticking (slowing down and getting tigheter) for a second, then continuing. It seems to be in the same spot everytime i turn. I changed the power steering fluid and it was oil black and metallic. I put new fluid in but im sure its still a lil grimy. I was just wondering if this is a power steering pump, or rack and pinion problem?
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Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 20,179
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From: Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction.
St. Jude '03 thru '24
What is your definition of "sitting a while". Is this measured in days, months or years?
Morning sickness is usually a groaning sound when turning the wheel while the car is still cold. Like when backing out of the driveway.
Yours sounds like a stiff spot on the rack, maybe rust. Are the boots intact or torn so moisture can enter?
A good visual inspection may help.
Morning sickness is usually a groaning sound when turning the wheel while the car is still cold. Like when backing out of the driveway.
Yours sounds like a stiff spot on the rack, maybe rust. Are the boots intact or torn so moisture can enter?
A good visual inspection may help.
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 44
Likes: 0
From: Lockport NY
I'm not sure exactly how long but with what i've seen (flat spot on tires, stuck closed thermostat, cobwebs lol) I would say 2-3 years. I had the groan at first but that was an easy fix it had low and really, really bad power steering fluid in it. I'll look at the arms coming out of that rack and check the boots, it might just have a little bad spot that can be taken care of. thanks
