Okey dokey, my car began making a LOUD squeal when I turned the steering wheel full lock either way. I checked the PS fluid level, it was low, plus I could see that the PS line mounted behind the pass. shock tower would move toward the engine right before the belt squealed. I filled the PS fluid reservoir to the top of the HOT bar after the engine had run. Didn't think that would stop the belt from squealing though. I was right. It was better, but the hose still moves about a quarter to a half inch toward the engine block (vs. the inch+ it moved before) right before it squeals. It didn't sound like a loose belt though, it sounded like the belt was slipping. I guessed that the pump was straining against the motor. I had a buddy turn the wheel while I looked at the power steering pulley and it turns out I was right. When I hit full lock either way, the pump strains, pulls on the hose and slows down, causing the pulley to slip against the belt.
What do I do?

 

don't worry about it. my car does the same thing when the belt is cold. is it really hurting anything? besides, how often do you turn your steering wheel full lock either way?

 

it could be a leaking boot...

something u might want to get looked at...cuz over time that problem puts wears on a few other parts

plus get the problem b4 it gets worse...

h

 

My car does it all the time though. I actually turn full lock quite a bit downtown, especially given the Maxima's battleship turn-radius. Yes it is hurting, slipping belts wear fast, plus the pump isn't functioning properly.

KuanSpeed, thanks for the suggestion, I'll try to check that out.

Anyone know if the rack/pinion adjustment bolts could do something like this?

 

simply tighten the belt. if you can move the belt more than about 3/4" when you press on it, then it's not tight enough.


if the pump is leaking and/or making a whining noice, then start saving for another one. other than that, you'll be fine.