A problem developed while I was on the Rubicon. I lose power steering at low speeds/rpms and the steering while fights me like crazy.

I found this link on the Chevy forum relating to this problem but the information below doesn't appear to apply to my Toyota because I've been told I don't have a sensor on my power steering pump.

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...the steering comes and goes. I do not seem to have power steering at low rpm's, but all is fine if I give it gas. Braking or coming to a stop and trying to steer gets a little tricky.


RESPONSE
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There is a sensor in the back of the pump.If this sensor is bad it will cause the pump to go bad in a short period of time. it will be hard to steer at low rpms. Follow the wires down to the back of the pump.


Toyota tells me it could be the Air Control Valve on the pump, but it costs $100 and is non-returnable.

Do you know of a way to test the power steering pump? Or the air control valve?

Thanks.

Joanna
1992 Toyota 4Runner -- 3.0L V6, MT, 4.7 TC
Amateur Radio AE License