2000 Tahoe Power Steering Failure

[Stroker1]

Last night I was backing a trailer with the wheels turned hard to the right and suddenly lost power steering. I don't see any leaks and when I pulled the pump cap (while it was running), there was a lot of vacuum on the cap. Also, the pump was making a sucking (gurgling) noise just like a vacuum pump would. Any ideas how to troubleshoot?

 

[oneradride]

Mine did the same exact thing last year while backing in the boat. Turns out the shaft inside the pump, that the pulley is attached to broke clean in 1/2. They kind of suck to replace… sorry

Specifically pressing back on the pulley….. I recommend removing the upper fan shroud and clutch fan assembly for some more room.

 

[Sepiroth]

X2 I was gonna type that your power steering pump shaft has just sheard off. Plain belt tension and a machined fit are keeping the pulley attached to the pump and the belt on. You will need to replace that pump ASAP. If you want, try a salvage yard fro a cheap replacement. I type that because I am unsure if the new pumps are sold with the pulley already attached.

 

[Stroker1]

Thanks!

My neighbor is a mechanic at the local Chevy dealer and just called and said the same thing. I guess it's fairly common on the early 2000's. He's also bringing home the "special" tool to R&R the pulley..sweet!