Steering issue-2000 Concorde

This problem popped up recently and I'm wondering if anyone has had any
experience with this issue. My steering is normal when driving or
whenever the engine speed is above about 1200 rpm. However, when the
engine speed is low, as when pulling in or out of a parking space, I
hear a terrible scraping sound when turning to the left-and only when
turning to the left- and steering effort is increased substantially. PS
fluid level is correct. I am going to check for brake drag but I don't
think that's it. Anyone had this happen to them?

 

Some possibilities:
(1) Worn/slick/loose belt. How long since it was replaced/adjusted?
(2) Does this have the 2.7L engine? If so, the p.s. system has a
pressure sensing switch that at idle tells the computer to bump up the
idle speed to maintain idle quality. (again - this only applies if you
have the 2.7L engine)

I wouldn't think that problems with (2) would cause a problem like
you're experiencing, but thought I'd mention it anyway just in case. I
would go with (1) and replace the accessory belt and it's idler pulley.
If they haven't ever been done, they're overdue anyway - and it just
might fix the problem.

Bill Putney
(To reply by e-mail, replace the last letter of the alphabet in my
address with the letter 'x')

 

Thanks for the thoughts, Bill. Yes it is the 2.7 and the belt, as far
as I know, has never been replaced so I'll do some PM on that and hope
that it solves the steering issue as well. I'll let you now how it
turns out.
Hope you have a Merry Christmas!

 

Well thanks! You too!

I would replace both belts and their respective idler pulleys - these
days, the belt idlers are a maintenance item (i.e., they do wear out).

Bill Putney
(To reply by e-mail, replace the last letter of the alphabet in my
address with the letter 'x')