Got a noisy power steering unit on my 96 - I'm figuring it's the pump. Anybody have a similar situation. It sort of growls, feels rough through the steering wheel.

 

sounds like the pump is going to me as well.

 

Suggest you check for a low fluid level, belt location and condition and the pulley. The steering racks have been known to have issues in C4s. The later years (yours) are less likely to problems.

 

I had all the same symptoms with my power steering, though the problem may be diferrent. I replaced a leaky PS hose and topped-off the resevoir with Automatic Transmission Fluid which I've done on all my cars for 50 years. I then had growling & chattering and no power assist. After a lot of false leads, someone convinced me to drain the fluid and replace it with real Power Steering Fluid. I disconnected the PS return hose and ran the engine for 30 seconds. I put that hose back and filled the system with real Power Steering Fluid. End of problem. [ I still find it hard to believe] Regards, Mike [89 Vette] I hope this helps you or someone else. I'd appreciate some feedback. email Me at duceee@msn.com

 

Similar problem here with my 1990. Tried draining and replacing the fluid with real power steering fluid but this didn't get rid of the groan. Eventually found the front seal of the pump was leaking. Had to replace the pump and pressure hose and no more problems. Cost around 300 bucks, minus labor of course.

 

I have a similar problem with my 85 too. Of a little different nature though. I don't get any power steering until the car reaches a certain operating temp. Someone told me that early C4's had this problem and that it was a rack problem. Do I need to replace the rack or can it be fixed? My mechanic told me that a rack replacement would be necessary. I really would like to repair the one in it if I could.... My PS pump doesn't make the groaning noise, it is just that the car has no power steering in the morning and afternoon when I first start off. Sure makes it rough to steer at low speeds and at a stop.

Good luck with everyone's steering problems

Clayton

 

I've had an 86 and 84 with the power steering problems. If everything is not leaking, top off the fluid, bleed the system by turning the steering wheel from left to right 2-3 times, and redrive. if this doesn't fix the problem, you need to look elsewhere. I have replaced the rack and pinion steering on both of my vettes. Had the morning sickness where no PS when cold. you can pick them up at oreillys auto parts for like 150$$. Come with inner tirod ends. Just put it in, put on new tirod outer ends, have it aligned and no more problems.

Good Luck