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Steering Colunm Noise????


leofig
11-07-2005, 07:52 AM
I've been hearing a sound coming from the steering column when I turn the steering wheel to either side. This sound also produces a feeling at the steering wheel base (feels like), as if the tires were rubbing against some very dried rubber-like surface; like when one walks on the floor of a tire storage space. This is most heard and felt when the truck is being to move, while pulling out of my garage.

I’ve checked steering fluid level and it’s ok. I had the steering kit installed at the dealer about a year ago, and I have not changed the power steering fluid since new. The truck is a 2002 Suburban Z71 with 84k mile. Does anyone out there have an idea of what this might be?

BTW, when is the time belt recommended to be replaced.

Thanks in advance.

Leo.

randynight
11-14-2005, 09:21 AM
Sounds like the intermediate steering shaft needs repacking with grease. It is the shaft you see under the hood. Mine made the noise when turning slightly to the right, as when going up a cloverleaf ramp. I had it replaced on my '01 once under warranty, it started making the noise again and I done the job myself. The dealer gave me the part since they had done the previous warranty work. Only problem, I didn't lock the steering wheel and it got turned while the shaft was out. That got the clockspring out of sync in the steering wheel that carries the current to the air bag. It will only go so many turns right or left, and when it broke the air bag light stayed on. It was a about $150 part. I think the steering shaft is a bit under $200? Like I said, they can be repacked with grease, don't know exactly how, they don't have a zerk on 'em. I was going to do that, but I damaged the shaft when I took it off and it wouldn't slide in and out.

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