1968 Power Steering Problem

[Terry B.]

I have a Power Steering problem with my 1968, 427 L-36. When the unit is cold, I have power steering but as the unit warms up the power steering assist goes away. As long as the car is moving, I do not notice the problem but turning the wheel getting the car back into the garage, there is no power assist. The system use to make a slight noise when I turned the wheel going back into the garage after it was warmed up, but now that does not happen. Of the 3 major components of the system, the pump, power control valve and steering cylinder, what do you think is the problem or should I replace all 3 components? The entire system, except for the hoses, is at least 15 years old and could even be original. Thank you for your help.

Terry

[Jim S.]

Re: 1968 Power Steering Problem

Is your problem when you turn in either direction? If it only happens in one direction it cannot be a pump problem.

If the problem is in both directions, and is strictly temperature related, my first inclination would be the pump. You should hear some pump noise when you reach near full lock since the pump should be going into pressure relief. Don't hold it in full lock for more than a few seconds.

Again, no noise from the pump would most likely lead me to the pump as the culprit.

Jim