Need Power Steering Help!

[tricknasty84]

I bought my 1984 720 4x4 for $840, and the power steering has never worked. I'm definitely getting sick of not having it, so I am going to do what it takes to fix it. Any suggestions? Could it be more than just the pump?

[PEZi]

So long as all the hoses are in good condition and full of fluid, it would have to be the pump. What is your specific reason for being fed up, though? Because, as someone who ridded of their power steering, I can tell you that by ridding of all the fluid it becomes extremely easy and tolerable to drive. Hell, I raced mine with no power steering. With fluid in the lines and box, your arms become the hydraulic fluid pump which is hard to do. If you rid of that fluid, you're simply manually turning the wheels which is pretty darn easy with the steering ratio and steering wheel size of a truck. Lots of leverage to work with.

[tricknasty84]

Oh I didn't know that!! I just figured it was that hard to turn. Mine is four wheel drive though, does that affect anything?

[PEZi]

Bigger tires add a little more weight, but once again you have a lot of leverage. I'm not necessarily suggesting this, as the pump is most likely the culprit and a decently easy fix. But if you want to save the cash, pull the belt, the pump, and cut the lines off near the steering box and loop them. To drain the fluid, undo the lines at the box and turn the wheel lock to lock until the fluid stops coming out easily. You don't need it all out, as it will help lubricate the moving parts to leave a film in there, and also serve as rust prevention. But once it stops regurgitating itself out when going lock to lock, simply reconnect the looped lines and clean up! Done.

[tricknasty84]

Thanksyou very much man, you've been a huge help. I have yet to bleed the system like you said, but I am definitely going to do that. Thanks again!