Sticky steering?

[mvanderh]

I have a 3rd gen Surf (2.7 petrol) and since a few weeks the steering has become a bit heavier it seems. Power steering still works, but it feels like more effort is needed from my side. When driving at 30mph or so, steering feels a bit 'sticky', in the sense that car goes very nicely straight, but turning slightly is not as smooth as it once was. Can power steering become less effective or so?

[puddlesurfer]

when you say not as smooth as it was is it juddering? It could be the power steering belt is slipping

[mvanderh]

Not juddering, it is rock steady straight ahead, and you need to turn the wheel a bit heavier than used to be to make a bit of a turn. How can I check if the belt slips, i.e. where is the belt?

[puddlesurfer]

It's the belt on the righthand side of the engine as you look from the front - It wont judder until you turn the wheel, also check the power steering fluid levels etc (obvious - I know)

WITHOUT engine running try and move the belt by hand, see if it moves has play in it does it feel softer than the other belts.

[stormforce]

silly question but have you checked the power steering fluid levels.I have a leak on my p/s and when it gets low i have similar symptoms as your getting but at higher speed its not so noticeable

[charvell]

check you tyre pressure mate

[BUSHWHACKER]

And the rad cap.

[mvanderh]

How can you tighten the power steering belt?
Any special equipment required?
Thanks