1997 Q45 steering issue (and others)

[AZhitman]

I'm challenged with refurbishing a once-loved '97 Q45t with 110k miles. She's been sitting for the past five years.

I've gotten her started and running. All fluids are topped off, but here's a weird one:

The power steering is not functioning (steering is very stiff) AND the steering wheel is about 120* off with the front wheels straight ahead (the top of the steering wheel is at 7:00 or 8:00).

Neither was an issue when the car was parked. Any ideas?

[3Q Jay]

my guess would be that a pressure o-ring dried out in the pump.
although the fgy33 pump is extremely simple compared to the active g50, i remember Keith Bowers frequently mentioning that he would lose power assist when the ps side of the active pump was exposed to air.
MMO?
nothin' on the 120 offset. does not seem logical for something with a mechanical linkage.

[Shawn_hollen]

Is there any noise when u turn the wheel? Does the pulley on power steering pump turn and the tensioner pulley turn? My power stearing is on its own belt and tensioner pulley. Is why I ask not sure the the 97 is same way like my 99. Is rack and stearing in good shape? May have nothing to do with it but worth a look. Also does it pull to either side when driving

[Shawn_hollen]

Also If the car has electric power steering, depending on the design, a failure of the motor will increase effort needed, to turn. Then look at siezed steering components (track-rod ends, steering box or rack, top-mount, bottom ball-joint, etc.). Just was thinking about the stearing system.

[Q451990]

I would check for a bad u-joint between the steering column and rack. I had one freeze on my old Q... it would loosen up after a while, but caused a similar issue. I suspect yours is pump related though.

[3Q Jay]

Greg-
any updates? I assume you already got the front wheels off the ground and checked for binding? remember fgy33 have mac p type front with a strut thrust bearing, not the 3rd link style of G50.

[AZhitman]

Not yet... it's bloody hot here, and my daughter's CRV is hogging up the free space in the cooled shop.

[Q451990]

Oh come on... it's only 110+, and it's a dry heat

[AZhitman]

This one will probably get sold uber-cheap once I wrap up the steering issue. If anyone near AZ wants a Q project, hit me up!