2000 Chevy Silverado Hard Steering One Direction

2000 CHEVROLET SILVERADO
142,000 MILES • V8 • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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CMCAL
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I am having a problem with steering in one direction (left) particularly at slow/no speeds. Problem started a few weeks back with the some loss of PS fluid. Refilled resevoir and problem was still there although it has not leaked any since.

Also, there is a hissing noise at times that sounds like its coming through the steering column.

Any help greatly appreciated. Thanks
Feb 20, 2008 at 11:02 AM
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2CARPRO JACK
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Is that a rack and pinion truck or does it have a steering box? If rack and pinion, I would think that the rack has a bad seal in it if it only has the issue turning one direction. If box, could be a bad box if all suspension parts are ok
Feb 20, 2008 at 12:04 PM
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CMCAL
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Thanks for the quick response.

The truck has a steering box, not rack/pinion. I've not yet inspected all suspension parts. The loss of hydraulic fluid and hissing sound through column are making me lean towards a problem with the box.

Would you recommend replacing the steering gear?
Feb 20, 2008 at 2:22 PM
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2CARPRO JACK
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Sounds like that is where it may be heading. Try popping the pitman arm (steering box ) loose from the drag link to be sure the suspension moves freely side to side first
Feb 20, 2008 at 3:06 PM
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CMCAL
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I'll do that and see if suspension is free. Thanks.
Feb 20, 2008 at 3:43 PM
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CMCAL
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Hi. I wanted to get back and post final resolution to this poblem. I replaced the steering box over the weekend. Took a while as I worked fairly slowly trying to make sure nothing was stripped or broken along the way. Fixed the problem and steering is back to normal. Thanks for guidance.
Mar 14, 2008 at 9:25 AM