2.0 gti mk3 steering problem

[Clobba]

I'm pretty new to all this forum stuff so bear with me.

I've got a mk3 2.0 Golf Gti in completely original condition. had it for a few months but the steering wheel has started juddering when i turn the wheel when the car is stationary and when on full lock. It also squeals when on full lock.

Can anyone help me?

I'm pretty skint so was hoping to sort it out myself, because i don't want to go to a garage to get charged just for someone looking at it

[Clobba]

oh, and someone has already told me to check the fluid level, and that looks fine.

[Wayne]

Rack problem or air trapped.

[ianw3321]

Check condition/tension of the power steering pump belt.

[Clobba]

will do.

cheers guys

[adamrob69]

sounds like it could be the belt

[Clobba]

Check condition/tension of the power steering pump belt.

I've checked the belt and it does seem a little loose (although not quite sure what the tension should be. I just compared it to the tension of the other belt) can i tighten it or will i need a new one?

[adamrob69]

mine was very loose and screamed on full lock, in the wet you lost the power and became juddery.

While i was geting my suspension done got the garage to tighten it sorted it straight away. You can buy a new belt for pence if you want to go down that route.

if you do a search, there has been a topic that details how you can change and tighten the belt.

[spunkymonkey]

My power steering belt was squeeling, it was £2.38 from ecp, that was trade though. I wouldnt tighten them, just replace it for that price.

The alternator belt is tensioned automaticaly on the 8v, power steering isnt.

[adamrob69]

i only tightened mine because it was very very loose (it wasnt a case of the belt giving up, it was because there was not enough tension for it to work properly)

From what i can remember there is just a couple of bolts you undo to tension it