Brief loss of power steering assist

kj-dec · **Posted:** Fri Jan 31, 2014 12:34 am

The Jeep just seems to want my life to be interesting. On Monday when it was below zero all day, the power steering pump was making more noise than usual in the morning but quieted back to normal after a couple minutes warming up. Drove to work ok.

When I left for lunch the vehicle noise was 'normal warm' level, but when I backed out there was no power assist on steering. It was not mechanically locked, just very hard to turn.

I pulled back into the spot and tried to work the wheel back and forth, when suddenly the cold noise from the P/S pump started up and I got assist back.

Checked the serpentine belt, no signs of slippage or other problems; its only about 18 months old.

Since then its been fine (but it has not been nearly as cold). The fluid in the reservoir is at a good level. One shop says the rack is leaking, but due to weather I've been unable to confirm that.

Thoughts appreciated.

swiftv8 · **Posted:** Sun Feb 02, 2014 4:47 pm

There are a few issues with KJ power steering.

Racks can leak out the end seals and into the boots. If it isn't filling the boots completely and dripping onto the ground than usually no symptoms are noticed unless low on fluid.

The high pressure line from the pump to the rack are known to leak. Same as above, if it isn't pouring out you usually don't notice anything until you are low on fluid.

The pressure sensor on the high pressure line can also leak

I used to have tight steering and noise on cold startup for about 15 seconds. I fixed it by flushing my fluid with the correct Mopar power steering +4 fluid. I believe over time the fluid's important properties and additives just wore out. Also wonder if that fluid might have started freezing, possibly moisture laden.

kj-dec · **Posted:** Sun Feb 02, 2014 8:01 pm

It was -18 overnight, perhaps -10 at lunchtime when the problem occurred; it had been as cold or colder a week or so earlier, but anything is possible. I know its not low on fluid at this time but the other issues are definite possibilities. Thanks for responding; hopefully we'll catch a break in the weather some weekend and I'll be able to give the system a once-over.

Brief loss of power steering assist

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