1986 325i new PS rack heavy as hell

Need technical Q/A then you're in the right place

Moderator: martauto

User avatar
Spc1953
E30 Zone Newbie
E30 Zone Newbie
Posts: 17
Joined: Wed Jul 06, 2016 11:00 pm

Post Sun Mar 26, 2017 10:04 am

Hi- just had new power steering rack done on my 86 325i. Old one leaking. Drove it home and the steering was incredibly heavy when turning to full lock both sides- turning in and parking the car was a nightmare. Felt like there was no power assist at all at when pulling it right or left. Does this mean there's something wrong with the pump? I'm wondering if I should take it back or is this stiffness normal when it's brand new? Thanks!
Speedtouch
Old Skooler
Old Skooler
Posts: 14100
Joined: Tue Feb 14, 2006 11:00 pm
Location: Canterbury

Post Sun Mar 26, 2017 11:41 am

Has it been bled properly? When refilling a PAS system, you are supposed to keep the fluid reservoir lid removed and turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock several times to expel trapped air, adding more fluid if necessary.

Also, check the belt tension to the PAS pump - maybe they left the belt loose or missing altogether!
///M aurice
ECU Upgrade EPROM Chips, £40 posted within the UK. Note these are not Zone chips.
viewtopic.php?f=6&t=279421