1979 Corvette, power steering problem (post restoration)

[Robert C.]

here's the scoop.

Body off resto completed and in the startup / testing phase.

Entire steering linkage replaced / power assist was rebuilt, new hoses etc.

The care is not aligned yet other than "roughly".......I did set the steering gear to the center position, I remember it was off (via Jim Shea's helpful pages)

Car is idling, all of a sudden the steering wheel turns by itself to the full right position. Not fast, no noise, just a slow steady full turn to the right.

Running GM p/s fluid, system was bleed. Power assist is fine, turns lock to lock without an issue.

But, if the wheels are straight ahead and it idles for a few minutes, wheel turns full right.

After the first startup, we were down a little bit on p/s fluid, maybe 3 or 4 oz. not much.

I'm wondering if I should bleed the system or - control valve is stuck ??

Any thoughts ?

[Richard P.]

Re: 1979 Corvette, power steering problem (post restoration)

I also had the p.s. system redone on my '63. I didn't do the work but from what I've read it sounds like your control valve needs to be adjusted. Its not faulty, just out of adjustment. The correct procedure should be in your shop manual or on-line. One caution, the power cyl. that I bought new was faulty when installed. Don't assume new parts aren't broken.

[Robert C.]

Re: 1979 Corvette, power steering problem (post restoration)

Thanks Richard........I was kinda thinking along those lines.

Duntov (in Texas) rebuild the control valve and ram........I guess one more thing on the 'list of things to do" with this
project.

Thanks for your help !

[Michael W.]

Re: 1979 Corvette, power steering problem (post restoration)

It's pretty much normal that a new control valve will need to be balanced after installation. The process is in the shop manual and takes just a few minutes with an allen key.

[Robert C.]

Re: 1979 Corvette, power steering problem (post restoration)

Just found it.......

Chris Petris did an article on it at Corvette Central's website with pictures:

http://tech.corvettecentral.com/2012/03/1963-82-corvette-power-steering-service/