I have a small problem with my 95 3.0..

If I have the air condition running, and the brakes applied my steering will lock up on occassion..but that's the only time I can duplicate the problem. It doesn't do it if the air conditioner is off. It doesn't do it if the air condition is running, but the brakes aren't applied.

It's weird and I've never known a power steering pump to lock up the steering. But is that the case? Can a bad power steering pump cause my steering to lock up?

Please help. It's kind of scary going 60 MPH, apply the brakes and have no choice but to go straight..

Thanks.

 

That's just plain freaky! I hope I never run into that on my '95...that would suck!

Fink

 

The PS pump powers the rear anti-lock pump. If you have this option, I would make sure you have bled the system and it is full, also check for leaks.
Another thought, check your belt tightness. If the A/C compressor is running the extra drag on the belts could cause the PS belt to slip when the brake is applied and the anti lock circuit is activated increasing the load on the pump. Have a friend duplicate the scenario while you stand TO THE SIDE of the vehicle and watch to see if the PS pump stopped, even intermittently. SHort of that I would consider proffessional assistance(as much as I hate to say it).

Good luck

 

Hey Slow,

Did you figure it out. I like to stay up on these things just in case they happen to me.

 

Well I checked my PS fluid, it was ok. Checked tension on all of my belts and they all are fine. I'm stuck.
The only thing I can think of is, the PS pump is bad and is locking up (which is weird, because my understanding is the PS pump just 'assists' the linkage in turning the wheels). Or I have a bad steering box, but that doesn't make any sense either since the problem only occurs when I have the A/C on and the brakes applied..

I'm boggled. I have no idea what to do next. I'm hoping to get more insight from the fella's on this board.

Thanks for the bump.

 

I think I would get a qualified mechanic to check that out pronto. Steering problems of that type are nothing to mess with...!

Jim

 

Understood. And I'd take in to Toyota if I could afford it. But I'm a starving college kid who just bought a house...If I can figure out what needs to be fixed I can do it...besides it's hard to duplicate the problem. I know that the only time it happens is when I have the A/C running and I'm applying the brakes. But, it doesn't always happen. It only happens maybe twice a week.