While on some trails tonight, I encountered a bit of a problem. I hit a puddle that was about a foot deep going 20 and now when i am stopped, and i turn the wheel either left or right, there is a loud squeaking noise coming from the front end. When I turn the wheel left or right and I hear that noise, the steering wheel shudders. Any ideas as to what could be causing the problem? My 2nd gen 2WD 4runner is stock except the 32" maxxis bighorns and the torsion bars are cranked.

Thanks for help in advance.

 

all my 4wd 4runner have always made noise if you turn the wheel all the way and turn like a grinding rattle...

but as far as being stoppped is your power steering pump making the noise??

 

You got the belt wet or muddy, the belt is slipping causing the squeaking. The slipping belt means the power steering is cutting in and out causing the steering wheel to shudder.

 

Something to check...
The water could have washed the lube off of the steering stops.
There are two per side and are easy enough to get to...just find the steering stops (from factory they have plastic caps on them but they quickly wear through and fall off) that are basically a round-headed bolt that contacts a half-moon shaped ramp type stop. Just take some grease and apply it to the bolt and steering stop with your finger. You will have to reapply at appropriate intervals or daily if you drive in water.

 

excactly as I was going to say...

 

Me too. Particularly considering 32's.