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Nissan Frontier Forums : Problems / Technical

Topic: Power Steering

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jonascf
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Posted: Feb 08 2011 at 7:36pm \| IP Logged

I have a problem with my recirculating ball power
steering system on a 2002 nissan frontier SE Crew cab
3.3L V6 4X4. when I start my truck in the morning or
after it has been sitting for a few hours in the cold
weather, I cant turn the steering wheel left sitting
still or moving. Turning the steering wheel right is
moderatley stiff, but I can turn it right immediately
after I start it. After I have let the truck warm up for
5-10 minutes, overall steering loosens a little, and I
can turn left. If it is above freezing for a while and I
start my truck, it is a lot easier, and I can usually
turn the steering wheel left right away, however it is
still unusually stiff. I have tried the turkey baster
method of swapping power steering fluid with 2 quarts of
new ATF and it did not seem to help. I have had a
mechanic look at it and he said it is probably a valve
issue in the gearbox. Given the conditions, it sounds
reasonable. However I would like to know what else I can
try to fix it without replacing the $350 dollar gearbox.
Also, if this makes a difference, when the truck is on a
lift with no load on the tires, the steering is flawless.
it is not even the slightest bit stiff. However, the shop
that the lift was in was very warm, so I think that might
have an effect on it.

frontierguy
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Posted: Feb 08 2011 at 8:10pm \| IP Logged

There are places that can do a fluid flush on your system.
Have you tried any additives like LUCAS. Most likely it
will need a box.

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'10 Altima SL
Traded 08 Frontier for 16 Frontier SV CC Long box, quite an upgrade. I do miss the 6 speed and Dynomax ex.

Nissan Technician 25 + years
2011 John Deere X720SE

jonascf
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Posted: Feb 08 2011 at 8:24pm \| IP Logged

i was thinking about a fluid flush but i haven't found a
place yet. does lucas make additives for power steering? or
do i just use transmission additives?

jonascf
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Posted: Feb 09 2011 at 8:00am \| IP Logged

also, has anyone else had or heard of a similar issue?

frontierguy
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Posted: Feb 09 2011 at 6:07pm \| IP Logged

Lucas does make an additive for P/S.

__________________

'10 Altima SL
Traded 08 Frontier for 16 Frontier SV CC Long box, quite an upgrade. I do miss the 6 speed and Dynomax ex.

Nissan Technician 25 + years
2011 John Deere X720SE

jonascf
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Posted: Feb 10 2011 at 9:20am \| IP Logged

So, i found lucas P/S additive and used it. it significantly loosened up and i am now able to turn left a little after i start it. it still sticks, but it is much better then before. next is a full flush and the max of 2 bottles and some quality p/s fluid. what is the best type of fluid to use for nissan p/s systems?

frontierguy
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Posted: Feb 10 2011 at 7:30pm \| IP Logged

Nissan P/S fluid.

__________________

'10 Altima SL
Traded 08 Frontier for 16 Frontier SV CC Long box, quite an upgrade. I do miss the 6 speed and Dynomax ex.

Nissan Technician 25 + years
2011 John Deere X720SE

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