Power Steering again

[jamiemacp]

I posted a thread on this a while ago, but the problem disappeard. However it is now back worse than ever. The steering started to intermittemtly go stiff, but has now gone very stiff all the time. As you try to steer, you have to force the steering wheel round bit by bit, very lumpy, with no smooth movement at all.
Am going to try changing the fluid, but believe it is more serious than that and am thinking about changing the PS pump. Anybody advise where I can get best deal on one and is it an easy job to do or best to get garage to do it?
Cheers
jamiemacp

[bigdaddycain]

Have you been topping up the fluid?

[jamiemacp]

No, Has been no need, levels have always appeared fine, thats why I found it so strange in first place.

[bigdaddycain]

And as far as you know, the fluid could be original? For the cost of some fluid, i'd try replacing it for starters, and take it from there, the original fluid may have just degraded to such a level that it no longer is up to the job anymore. Fingers crossed for ya!

[fitzbongo]

I had a similar problem on my wife's Audi 80. The fluid was old and very dark. The best thing (in my opinion at least!!) is to flush the system a few times and then leave nice clean fluid. I thought of the most cost-conscious brand of humanity who use hydraulic fluid and found my way to Mole Valley Farmers. A gallon of Hydraulic (Dexron II) was about £8. Audi wanted about £12 for a litre!!

It may not cure it, but it's certainly worth a try. Drain the fluid by just disconnecting a pipe and catching it in a bucket or other oil-draining receptacle. Refill before running the engine, as running dry is not good. Audi was cured (not bad for 208,000 miles on the original mechanics).
Good luck
Fitz

[jamiemacp]

Followed the advice given and flushed out fluid and replaced with new today. The old stuff was the colour of used engine oil and I have to say, I cannot believe the difference just changing the fluid made. Back to its origianl best again.
Thanks for all who replied.

[dandywarhol]

Maybe someone had topped it up with used engine oil