[s-cars] power steering failure

[Tom Green]

> Jeff Hemmerlin wrote:

> Hi,
>
> My power steering is failing.  I just replaced the hose from the pump 
> to the rack and now I only have power steering on startup.  Then when 
> I drive it stops working.  To get it back I have to rev the engine in 
> neutral and make siginificant turns with the wheel.  Power steering 
> returns until I drive straight for a few seconds.  It makes no 
> difference if the servotronic is plugged in or not.  The Brake light 
> is not on.  Did I get debris in the system that is holding valves 
> open?  Should I take apart the power steering pump?  What should I 
> check?  Any suggestions.  The hoses are no longer leaking They were 
> just rebuilt.
>
>
> Jeff H
> 95 S6
> Napa, CA

Check the reservoir, Jeff.  If there is debris, there should be some 
evidence in the screen filter there, and the fluid discolored.  If so, 
clean out the screen and reservoir as a first step.  I really like 
changing the fluid when doing work on the system, even at $50+ for the 
synthetic fluid.  The restrictor in the center of the high pressure 
hose to the rack could get plugged by debris as well as screens in the 
banjo fittings at the pump that some hoses have, so keeping the system 
clean is an absolute necessity.  The urs-4.com site probably has some 
help to supplement Bentley.  Sounds like the hose installer may have 
some responsibility here as well.

Tom '95 S6