tight steering problem
 

i had a problem with my steering a while back. it made a terrible sound when i started the car up and pushed on the gas. it was even worse when i started to turn the wheel. not only was it making those sounds, it was very tight on the steering. i figured it was the steering pump and belt, or the rack and pinion. i bought a new pump and belt and replaced them. it made no sounds and was back to normal when steering. a few weeks later, maybe 3, it didn't make any sounds but was solid on hte steering. it takes strength to turn the wheel. what do you think the problem is? possibly the rack and pinion? or would the control arms have anything to do with it? it is a 97 eclipse gs. i would appreciate the help if there is any out there.

RE: tight steering problem
 

newspeed,

Were she mine, I'd first check that she was full of p/s fluid. Some pumps will wine when they're low and some will just silently burn up (don't know what your's does). Next I'd ensure that the belt isn't loose; she usually makes a heck of a squeal if it's loose.

Good luck, Jeff

RE: tight steering problem
 

check fluids, steering cylinder. my eclipse had the same problem before, mitsu fixed it. lucky still under warranty, but yeah its a burnt steering system. pretty much the fluid aint running thru the system. and its a factory error.