Something seems to be wrong with the steering. When taking a corner the wheel feels really heavy. The first time it happened i thought i must have a flat tyre, stopped the car and checked them, but they were all fine. Then the problem disappeared, but now it's back. Seemed worse turning in one direction than the other. Does anyone have any ideas on what it might be. I'm hoping it's not the power steering pump!!

 

check your power steering fluid?

 

It's probably low steering hydraulic fluid or a leak.
Also, check the condition of power steering belt, as slipping belts cause erratic steering problems.

There are some other possibilities. EG: the variable assist control box could have a problem.
The power steering computer has it's own error code system which will emit gentle beeps (versus louder the redline, LOW COOLANT, LOW OIL buzzer) when it encounters a problem with the power steering system.
1-beep, pause, repeat - in case abnormality of speed sensor signal:
In case broken wires or short circuits occur to sensors or harnesses, the buzzer sounds 60-seconds after the engine speed signal of 2200 rpm continues for 18-seconds.
2-beeps, pause, repeat - in case abnormality of engine speed signal:
The buzzer sounds when the vehicle speed signal is input and no engine speed signal is input (short circuit, broken wire, etc.)
3-beeps, pause, repeat - in case abnormality of stepping motor signal:
The buzzer sounds when there are broken wires or short circuits in coils or harnesses.
4-beeps, pause, repeat - in case abnormality of the power steering microcomputer:
The buzzer sounds when there are circuit troubles other than with the micro computer.
5-beeps, pause, repeat - in case abnormality of steering sensor signal:
The buzzer sounds 60-seconds after broken wire or short circuit occurs to sensors or harnesses when the vehicle speed is above 40Km/h (25 mph).
Continuous beep - in case abnormality of the power steering microcomputer:
The buzzer sounds if the microcomputer becomes abnormal and cannot control the system.

 

Unfortunately, it could be the rack itself that's bad. A pain to replace if you ask me. But check the obvious first: fluid level and quality, pump, etc.

hugues -

 

The belt and the fluid levels are both fine. As for the beeping, the only time my car beeps is when we hit 110kph. Then it beeps on off on off on off. Thought it was a speed limit notifier. The only other beep is if you leave the lights on and open the car door. ????

 

it also beeps if you are out of coolant,but it prolly is the power steering pump, i have an 86, and they didnt come with power steering, but it works fine to me