Power Steering issues 2g

[hardtrailz]

I have a 2g w 420a and have some steering issues. The car sat for close to a year, but runs and drives well now. The issue is that the steering groans and moans. Thought it was low on fluid, but it is full and the fluid kinda dark. I believe a searched and found that these use Dex2 not power steering fluid. I am not sure if the proper fluid is in there. Just got the car. I have noticed a slight squealing, belt sound, at higher rpms, but not real bad. I had the factory 195 tires and steering felt nice and light, I went up to 225s and it got harder, which was expected with new meaty tires, but seems harder than it should when stopped.

My questions are how to not waste time and money to fix this.

A. Flush steering system w some cheap trans fluid and see if it helps?

B. Replace pump when doing system fluch?

C. Is there something I should grease in the steering contributing to the groaning?

D. This is normal for the most part and deal with it?

E. The rack needs replaced?

These are my ideas and hoping some of yall more experienced in these cars can help me out. I am a good basic mechanic, but can likely get help if it will require serious surgery. I am not abusing the car or racing, just trying to have nice daily driver.

Any and all help is appreciated. If more info is needed or you got ideas for me to test or try, help me out. Thanks.

 

[e_miller81]

From the sounds of it your pump is failing. I'm not really sure how to test for a bad pump with out just replacing it. But the pump is what gives the fluid to the rack and allows it to turn better. Check the rack to make sure there is no leaks underneath. Hope this helps.

 

[hardtrailz]

From the sounds of it your pump is failing. I'm not really sure how to test for a bad pump with out just replacing it. But the pump is what gives the fluid to the rack and allows it to turn better. Check the rack to make sure there is no leaks underneath. Hope this helps.

I understand how rack and pinion and power steering works. I am actually removing it from my trailblazer since it is a weak design for offroad use.

I have not noticed any leaks and the system has stayed full for 2 weeks. I am hoping the pump doesnt need replaced, but I also have not found a good way to test. Are the pumps in these a common failure issue?