Questions and Answers

Jeep Cherokee: No P/S When Cold Q. Dear Vincent: I have a 1992 Jeep Cherokee 2WD 4.0 liter engine and automatic transmission. A few months back I replaced the power steering pump and every thing was fine until it started getting cold here in Missouri. Now it acts like the old rack and pinion that was in my 1985 Chevy Citation. No power steering until it warms up.

Since the Cherokee doesn't have a rack and pinion I am at a loss as to what the problem is. I was told that there was a check valve of some sort in the steering gear box that might be bad. Do you have any ideas?

Sincerely,
Brian

A. Usually when this happens it is an indication the power steering fluid needs changing. Since that is the cheapest and easiest thing to do, that is what I would suggest at this point.

The best way to do it is to remove the power steering fluid return line from the power steering pump and place the end in a bucket. Crank the engine until fluid stops coming out. Disconnect the ignition coil wire from the distributor and ground it so the engine won't start.

Refill the system while cranking until the fluid comes out the same color going in. You can use automatic transmission fluid for this. When you are done, reattach the return line and fill with power steering fluid or ATF.

Bleed the system by turning the steering wheel from stop to stop. Don't hold it against the stop since the pump may overheat. If the fluid is foamy, wait until it clears up and continue bleeding.

Then see if the problem goes away. If not, I would guess the problem is more likely to be the power steering pump rather than the steering gear itself.