Steering - Chatter/Stiff Steering When Cold
89pontiac08Bulletin Number: 89-3-16
Reference Number: 973202
Publish Date: 4/89
Subject: STEERING CHATTER/STIFF STEERING WHEN COLD (ADJUST POWER STEERING PUMP BELT TENSION)
Models
Affected: 1988 - 1989 GRAND AM 2.3L (VIN D)
On some 1988-89 Grand Am models with 2.3L (Vin D) engines, customers may comment on a steering chatter or stiff, jerky steering while turning the steering wheel when the vehicle is first started in very cold weather and not moving (i.e. cold start, maneuvering in a parking space). There may also be comments about a squealing noise when the steering wheel is turned.
This condition may be caused by insufficient tension in the power steering pump drive belt.
This condition may be addressed by measuring and adjusting the belt tension using Tool # J 36018 belt tension gage per the directions in Section 3B1 or 3B3 of the chassis service manual. The proper tension for this belt is 450 newtons or 100 pounds.
Important: Tool # J 36018 belt tension gage must be used to check the tension of this belt. This is a very short belt, and may appear to be at sufficient tension when hand-checking without a belt tension gage.
For warranty purposes, use the appropriate labor operation and time.