The ps on my '88 SE sometimes gets really heavy at any speed - as though there is no ps effect. Doesn't happen often, and goes back to normal after a few minutes.
Any ideas?

 

are you aware of/used to the speed-sensitive steering?

that would be my guess. Otherwise, how's your power steering pump belt?

 

My 87TII used to do the same thing, very inconsistent. I didn't feel like replacing anything in the system, so I just tore it off...and sealed up the rack.

My PS on my AE works perfectly, and that's staying on I'm getting too old and lazy to fight with steering my car

 

I'd be looking at the speed sensor input at the power steering computer, and the speed sensor output from the back of the gauges.

If it only happens when cold or warm, then I'd be looking at cold solder joints on the plug in the power steering computer.

 

Mark,
Thanks - Any way to check those points, or is it just easier to change the ps computer?