!!!!help!!!! St33ring Way Too Tight!!!!

[<X> haXor]

I have a 1990 525i and the other day when I went out to go for a drive the steering was very firm. It takes a lot of effort just to make one resolution, and then when you do, the wheel wants to snap back to midline. I checked power steering fluid, and it was normal. I really am frustrated as this is my only means of transportation. I am looking for any advice or help or knowledge that any of you have that can help me in diagnosing this problem. Thanks to all of you! <x>

[632 Regal]

you ever try to change the fluid?

[western99]

Not much you can do.

[Seth]

Any ideas on where to get a pump and the price of one?

[liquidtiger720]

...hmm, How do you change the fluid? Mine is looking a little brown.

[Seth]

I have never changes the fluid. I usually just have the shop take care of everything. It is dark out so I could not tell about the color of fluid. I think it looked redish. In any event I appreciate your input. Also, I have noticed that whenever I hit a bump or hole in the road there is a loud thud type noise coming from the right tire area. Sounds like maybe a control arm??? Not really sure. Any ideas????

[JonE]

...hmm, How do you change the fluid? Mine is looking a little brown.

Turkey baster to suck up old fluid, getting as much as possible. Then replace with correct fluid. There was more than one type, so make sure it is the right fluid.

[632 Regal]

there is a drain bolt on the bottom of the pump, drain it out, start it and turn the wheel one side to the other and refil with the correct fluid. The turkey baster is for the brake fluid but I guess you could use it here too.

[Paul in NZ]

could it possibly be one of the belts guys???

[Seth]

Well, I used the turkey baster and it was to no avail. Car still has same problem. There are some clanking noises in the front, so it may be a belt too. Im not really sure. :(

[Reuben Lim]

Had the same problem few months back with my 89 525i. My mechanic recommended changing the pump too, but decided to change hoses first as well as fluid. After, steering improved markedly. Turned out one of the hoses had the beginnings of a leak, and the insides were full of gunk. Changed my wheels a few weeks later to 17 inch Austrian rims, and steering is now very soft. Hope this helps.

[liquidtiger720]

there is a drain bolt on the bottom of the pump, drain it out, start it and turn the wheel one side to the other and refil with the correct fluid. The turkey baster is for the brake fluid but I guess you could use it here too.


Turn it while its draining?

-mine uses ATF fluid.

[632 Regal]

after its stops draining start it and turn the wheel to get more old stuff out, then shut it off, put the plug back in and fill er up. My stuff is still crystal clear. CHF 11 I think, too cold to look, 5 out now.