Hi,I have a 99 alero,3.4 having problems with steering,replaced pump,twice and still steers hard,better going down the road,but hard at idle and low speed.Do you think it might be the rack and pinion?Any suggestions on how to get it checked out?Thanks,Dan.

 

Do you know if it has a variable assist steering pump?

There maybe air in the system too. Does it make a groaling noise?

 

Im not sure on the varible assist,how do you tell?It doesnt make any noises.I have turned it lock to lock so many times my arms hurt,Idont think its air,its better than the last pump which was a autozone,now I have a napa on it.Im thinking it might be the rack,anyway I could get this checked out before I tackle that job?,looks like a pita,thanks,Dan

 

Sounds like a gear (rack).

 

If there is a wiring harness going to the pump it has varible assist. It wouldn't surprise me if the rack is bad. Mine is on its way out right now. I just don't want to change it. If you want I can get you some directions on removing the rack. Let me know.