Power steering problems

[bampotman]

My Mk3 GTI is acting funny!

Twice now I have got resistance from my steering wheel when turning right.  If i put put more weight into it, it gets unstuck and Carry's on turning to right with no problems. The weird thing is that both times it happend, its been raining. Anyone had problems like this before?

Also off the main topic a bit. My gearknob and gaiter are knackered and need replacing. Will a mk 4 golf or Audi a4 gearknob fit? If they will with a bit of work, what needs to be done.

Cheers

[monkeyalan]

if you can get under the car , see if the power steering rack gaiters are twisted.

[binliner]

Mk4 gearknobs can be made to fit... they dont screw on like mk3 ones though. Audi ones are the same, I put an S3 one on mine by drilling a hole in the underside of it and using that hole to screw it on then held it in place with a jubilee clip underneath (hidden by the gaitor). If you use an audi one you'll need to swap the diagram on the top for a mk4 one though as reverse is in a different place!

[bampotman]

Cheers. I wanted to know before I went out and got a gear knob that won't fit.  Where did you get a hold of your s3 one from? Are there any good suppliers out there for Audi or VW knobs? I've found this one.

https://sslrelay.com/s74326199.oneandoneshop.co.uk/sess/utn;jsessionid=1542adc0e007682/shopdata/index.shopscript

Thanks monkeyalan. I will have a look under the car and see whats going on

[vanish]

My Mk3 GTI is acting funny!

Twice now I have got resistance from my steering wheel when turning right.  If i put put more weight into it, it gets unstuck and Carry's on turning to right with no problems. The weird thing is that both times it happend, its been raining. Anyone had problems like this before?

I've recently noticed the exact same thing when I drove in the rain.  Let me know if you find a solution as I nearly had a "brownstripe" moment when it happened!

[Jamie]

Your power steering problem is down to the pump belt slipping, the resistance in steerring occuring when it slips.  You will notice it first off in damp conditions as moisture in the air is lubricating the belt.  Either tighten the belt or replace it.  Almost cetain you will be OK then.

[bampotman]

Thanks mate I'll try and tighten the belt first and see if it solves the problem. I nearly crapped my pants the first time it happened! On a roundabout turing right with a car that didn't want to!

[Jamie]

I know what you mean, it feels so much stiffer when it does slip that it suddenly feels as if the steering rack has siezed.