Power Steering Shudder/Vibration at Low Speed (replace Pwr Strg Pressure Pipe)

Some customers may comment on a shudder/vibration condition at low speeds during parking lot type steering maneuvers. This low frequency condition can be felt in the steering wheel/body structure and is audible inside the vehicle's passenger compartment.

This condition may be caused by a mechanical vibration of the power steering gear rack, tie rods and tires that is reinforced by the hydraulic pressure generated in the power steering system.

Replace the existing power steering pressure pipe/hose assembly with the new "tuned" pipe/hose assembly, P/N 26075972, using the following procedure:

1. Siphon the power steering fluid from the reservoir.
2. Raise the vehicle and suitably support.
3. Position the jackstand under the rear cross-member of the frame/cradle assembly.
4. Remove the rear two frame/cradle bolts and lower the assembly 25 mm (1 in).
5. Remove the tie strap and unclip the oxygen sensor wiring harness from the power steering pressure pipe/hose assembly.
6. Disconnect the pressure power steering pipe/hose assembly at the power steering pump.
7. Disconnect the pressure power steering pipe/hose assembly at the power steering gear. Remove from the vehicle and discard.
8. Install the new pressure power steering pipe/hose assembly (1), P/N 26075972 and hand start the fitting at the power steering pump. See Figure.
9. Position the pressure pipe/hose assembly so that the rubber sleeve lightly contacts the transmission support bracket and tighten the fitting at the pump to 27 N·m (20 lb ft). See Figure.
10. Route the new assembly, forming a loop in the hose (See Figure), and hand start the fitting at the power steering gear.
11. Secure the metal pipe portion of the pipe/hose assembly (1) to the steering gear with the tie strap (2), P/N 11509087. See Figure. Secure the Oxygen Sensor wiring harness clip.
12. Tighten the pipe/hose fitting at the power steering gear to 27 N·m (20 lb ft).
13. Inspect and verify that a minimum clearance of 25 mm (1 in) exists between the hose/exhaust manifold heat shield and also between the hose/front of dash (3). See Figure.
14. Raise the frame/cradle assembly up to the underbody of the vehicle.
15. Install and tighten the cradle bolts to 180 N·m (133 lb ft) and lower the vehicle.
16. Bleed the power steering system, following the procedure in the Power Steering System sub-section of the Service Manual.

Parts are currently available from GMSPO.

For vehicles repaired under warranty, use: