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HI guys,
I have a small problem with my Fourtrak, and would really appreciate your help and advice. Its an M reg Rocky Independant, SWB, and I love it. I have a pic posted..anyway, the problem is with the steering. Yesterday it started to judder and squeel when turning the wheel, especially on full lock, either direction. Checked the PS fluid-this si fine, belts seemed ok but the PAS belt did seem just a little bit slack (I know it should be about 10-14mm give, but seems more like 2-3cm i think) I sort of managed to adjust it a little, and its seemed ok since BUT could this slightly slack belt have caused that issue? I started to worry that the pump might be going,but the steering squeels and judders at teh same time, doesnt this suggest a bad belt? but its been ok on the way to work today. What would happen if the belt snapped, I know i would lose PS but would I still be able to steer, or would it just lock up?
I will replace both belts this weekend, but its hard to tell if they are actually old, so is there anything else I can check??
hope you can help guys, thanks!!
Pumped Up
Power steering pumps rarely give problems, it is usually the belts slipping due to being slack, old age, or contamination fron engine oil leaking, or mud from off roading.
Remove the old belts, thoroughly clean the entire area and degrease, using fine wet and dry paper, sand the inner faces of the pump pulley to remove the shiny surface to give the new belt purchase. Fit the new belt and tension, check the tension after a couple of weeks to ensure it has not gone slack.
While you have access to the pump. it may be prudent to change the power steering fluid, this really needs changing every three years to preserve the working life of the pump.
P.S.
Nearly forgot, if the belt snaps the steering will work but you will not need to go to the GYM for a few weeks after.
Thankyou Assassin, thats
Thankyou Assassin, thats great advice I might just do that seems simple enough (I have a workshop manual) as for a the gym, I could do with a workout anyway!