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StacyBurleigh's avatar
StacyBurleigh
Explorer
Aug 21, 2013

Tow Vehicle steering binds after towing

Towing Jeep Liberty 2003 automatic 4x4.
Short distances don't seem to be a problem, but 200 miles last trip caused steering to bind up upon disconnect and start up of jeep, noticed when turning. steering resists turning sharply and shuddering can be felt in steering wheel. after 5 minutes it loosens up (whew!) thought I had done a zinger to myself!?
I have followed the book on hook up and transmission set up (4x4 in neutral and transmission into park - don't think problem is in drive gearing, rather in steering) -- Any thoughts? Is there something that needs to be done specially for the rack+pinion steering? Thx Harry
Tow Vehicles

5 Replies

  • StacyBurleigh's avatar
    StacyBurleigh
    Explorer
    Aug 23, 2013
    All - thanks for input! I have been doing the idle and slowly turning wheel and that seems to works. There is a bit of smell I notice at unhook of jeep something like brakes but not quite, more rubbery. probably can expect additional wear and tear on the jeep rack and pinion - something to look forward to... I have never replaced one of those! Cheers Harry
  • _40Fan's avatar
    _40Fan
    Explorer
    Aug 22, 2013
    You won't get the air out without turning the steering wheel. Don't overfill the reservoir. After first start, move the wheel back and forth a little at a time to get the fluid going and air out. Then gradually more and more. Nothing out there that can be done to prevent this.
  • sch911's avatar
    sch911
    Explorer
    Aug 21, 2013
    If you let it idle for a few seconds (20 to 30) before trying to turn it should purge the PS system.
  • StacyBurleigh's avatar
    StacyBurleigh
    Explorer
    Aug 21, 2013
    is this a problem to be concerned with? other than ensuring power steering reservoir is full? Start engine and let it run a bit before exercising steering.
    Is there a power steering rack-pinion auxillary pump that is necessary?
    other options?
    Thanks Harry
  • dodge_guy's avatar
    dodge_guy
    Explorer II
    Aug 21, 2013
    This happens because the PS fluid gets pushed out of the rack and pinion when the wheel is turned from towing. when you start it at first there is no fluid to assist, then when it does flow it is aerated and that is what is giving you the shudder after it has been running. after the 5 min. the air is purged from the system and all is normal! Ford is the worst for this as it will push the fluid out the top of the pump/reservoir.

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