Help !! I have an 87 non-turbo. When I press on my brakes my power steering goes out, but only while I'm braking. This use to happen only when it was very cold out and would go away after I drove for 10 or 15 minutes. Now it happens all the time. I have sufficient brake and power steeering fluids and my belts seem tight. Anyone ever hear of this?

 

Watch the voltmeter in the car when you hit the brakes, does it drop? Turn the headlights on and hit the brakes, do they dim? Usually stuff happening when hitting the brakes is a sign that the alternator is dying, might want to have it tested. Not sure what it would be affecting PS wise, but worth a shot.

 

possibly a cold solder joint in the power steering CPU, but more than likely a loose plug into it.

You did check the plug on the power steering CPU before you posted right? The power steering CPU is right behind the drivers dash speaker.

 

I'd question the functioning of the BAC Valve upon start up. Perhaps It's sticking and when Motor reaches normal operating temperture, the Coolant flowing through It allows the Valve to operate properly. Try cleaning It.

 

now, whats more important, good steering or brakes?

Just lay off the brakes and keep on drifting.


But in all seriousness... park downhill on a steep incline pull the E-Brake and see if your power sterring still works okay. Keep me posted.

 

the reason your power steering goes out is loss of vacuum (im almost sure on this one.. been awhile since ive worked with power steering)..

 

HUH???

There are no vacumn connections for the power steering.

 

yeahj the power sterring works off a pump...

my best advice is to ditch the power sterring and get a manual sterring rack