Just recently, my ps has started to become a little sluggish. I checked the fluid level and it was low so i added some fluid. But it still seems to be lacking the power. What would be some other things to check on. There appears to be no leaks, and there are no out of place noises coming from the engine bay, cold or hot. I ran a search for other info, but no one really seems to elaborate on their problems, just talk about replacing or rebuilding. Am I missing something?

 

I replaced the fluid in my pump with Redline's D4 ATF and things seem to work more smoothly. I would get 2 quarts of it and do the old siphon/replace method. That way the detergency of the ATF can clean up the system and you can get it out as its cleaning. Just keep siphoning/replaceing every couple of days until you've used about 1.5 quarts and save the rest for top-offs.

 

Check the P/S belt and make sure it's not too loose or worn out.

 

After the other good suggestions, maybe check to see if the idle up valve is working properly, I think the power steering is variable, depending on engine speed, which is what my '85 Supra had. If this vacuum device isn't working correctly, it could cause problems.

In my '95, at idle, sitting still, about a half second after I turn the steering wheel, you can hear the idle speed increase a little, check to see if your does that.

Sorry for the vague suggestion, haven't had to troubleshoot steering problems yet.

 

What exactly is this 'idle up valve'? Or do you mean idle sensor? the belts appear to be in good order, no loose play, feel gripy on the underside. If the pump were shot, how would you know? Besides the fact the there would be no power to the steering. Would there be any noises or would it even still turn? Right now, there are no noises coming from the engine, anywhere. And how would you know if the steering box were shot. My manual does not do a very good job of diagnosing this type of situation. Thanks.

 

If you haven't done it already, check your tire pressures. My steering was getting "heavy" and I found my front tires were low. I aired them up again and the steering was fine.