[V8] Lumpy power steering

[Kneale Brownson]

The pressure accumulator plays no part in the power steering system.  It's
a brakes thing only.  Foaming means the pump is sucking air, usually
through the front seal.  If you're not seeing it, your pump is not sucking
air.  The bleeding system you employed is what Audi calls for.  You do not
want to hold the steering against a lock.  Not good for any PS system.
Check the rack bellows to make sure there's not a collection of Green Gold
in there.  If not and you're not "spotting" elsewhere, and if you're not
seeing a steady decline in fluid level, you should be OK there.  I'm
wondering if your "lumpy" steering isn't related to some front suspension
issue.  Maybe the strut bearings?


At 11:38 PM 12/27/2006 -0500, Mark Kalbskopf wrote:
>Thanks for the suggestions.
>I'm not seeing any foaming.
>As far as air in the system goes; when I finished the installation  
>after topping off with the 11S green stuff,  I just went from  
>steering lock to opposite lock with the wheels off the ground a few  
>times. Is there some other step I'm missing for getting the air out?
>If there was another leaking hose I assume I'd never get the air out  
>or reach the correct operating pressure?
>
>I'm a bit doubtful that this is the problem, because the steering  
>feels very similar to before I started the work. It's just very  
>slightly better after having the new bomb and pressure hose.
>
>I'll have to get out tomorrow and check the belt but nothing's  
>squealing. A new pump doesn't sound like fun.
>
>How about getting someone to hold the steering on full lock and then  
>check for some green fluid spurting out?