2 probs: Power steering and excessive charging

[mrtwittwoo]

I have two unrelated problems with my Stag that I am attempting to resolve:

i) Steering: At parking speeds when turning the steering wheel, nothing seemsto happen and then the steering seems to "catch" and turn normally. This is not evident when driving. I have replaced the power steering belt but it doesn't seem to have made any difference.

ii) Charging: The volt meter sporadically goes "off the scale" but then returns to the normal range. This can happen several times in the course of a journey and seems unrelated to speed, or engine temperature. The last battery I think dies prematurely due to this. Tempted just to replace the alternator, unless I have advice to teh contrary.

Many thanks
Stephen

[Ian F]

Stephen

Assume you have done the obvious and checked the Power steering fluid? There are two levels on the dipstick in the cap, Hot & cold so make sure its at the right level. If that is OK could be pump or the rack starting to fail, or possibly air in the system? Bleed the air by jacking up the front of the car and turning the wheel from lock to lock several times. It may help?

Over charging is likely the alternator on its way out, had same problem a year or so ago, first new alternator, then a new battery as it had probably cooked the old one before I noticed the guage. All OK now.

Ian F

[V Mad]

On the electrical problem, even overcharging, the volmeter should not go off scale. If there were an intermittent break in connection between battery and rest of the 12v system, then alternator voltage could go sky high.

On steering, not sure what is meant by 'nothing happens'? Even if the assistance fails the steering will operate. Confused.

[mrtwittwoo]

It feels like the steering wheel is moving but the actual wheels aren't, as though one is not connected to the other. Then it suddenly works.