Questions and Answers

Lincoln Continental P/Steering Problem Q. I have multiple problems which may be interrelated. Therefore I will list them. 1. Sometimes the car seems to lose part of its power steering. Such as when I am coasting on an off ramp without any pressure on the gas pedal. I have checked the power steering fluid and it is at the proper level.

Also, the car starts fine in the morning but as soon as I turn the steering wheel the engine dies. I have heard of morning sickness which would mean I need a new rack and pinion but the engine also dies when I turn on the front windshield defroster.

This problem is worse on days when it rains or there is high humidity. If I turn the wheel slowly the engine is sometimes able to recover. Also when the car has been run within 10 to 12 hours it will start and run properly. About 70% of the time the steering responds great.

2. When sitting at a stop light the engine seems to idle somewhat rough. It almost feels as though the engine is missing. When I put my foot on the accelerator it runs smoothly.

3. I recently went on a road trip. When accelerating between 40 and 45 MPH the whole car would shake and or shimmy. This would stop at 50 MPH. Also there were some serious problems climbing hills.

• 1989 Lincoln Continental
• 3.8 liter V-6
• Automatic transmission
• 111,000 miles
• Fuel injected
• ABS brakes
• P/S, A/C, cruise control
• Rack and pinion steering

Any help or thoughts are greatly appreciated!!!!!
Chris

A. 1. If a through inspection of the power steering system reveals no obvious faults or leaks, this condition is probably being caused by internal steering rack leakage.

Ford has a new power steering "short rack" assembly, Ford part number F30Y-3L547-A, with an improved control valve to sealing ring tolerance.

As for 2 and 3, I think some basic maintenance will take care of these two problems. New spark plugs, ignition wires, air and fuel filters could very well resolve them. In addition a good throttle body cleaning will help a lot.

Number 3 could also be a torque converter apply shudder. If that is the case, then a transmission filter and fluid change may correct it. If not, then check for codes in the computer. If there are no codes stored, a Ford Dealer or transmission shop will need to look at it.