Dylan,

Well... obviously, there's the fluid level, and the belt, but I'm assuming
you checked those (since they are obvious).

If the system is holding fluid, all you have left to consider are the pump,
and the rack. The pump is both cheaper and easier to remove/rebuild/replace
(thirty-some bucks for the rebuild kit from Bus Depot, good instructions in
the Bentley).

If you are losing fluid, climb under and see where it's coming out. If the
rack is leaking, it likely needs replacement... if it's the lines, see
Frank Condelli's site for a hi-pressure hydraulic hose replacement for the
rusty steel lines... did this about two years ago on my '85 and it's worked
out nicely.

I do know that if the pump has been run dry for any length of time, it's toast.

Tim

At 08:40 AM 9/23/2005 -0700, you wrote:
>Here's my problem volks:
>
>A week ago, I started noticing an awful noise when steering while
>driving under ~20 mph, as well as more than usual tension in the
>steering wheel. I've been driving as little as possible, but haven't
>had time to get under the van (or take it to the doctor). Today, the
>noise is gone, and it seems my power steering is too. No problem at
>speeds above 30 mph, but i'm getting a workout turning the wheel
>while driving slowly. My first guess is the power steering pump is
>toast. But are there any other possibilities to check out before
>hunting down a new pump?
>
>Thanks for the input!!
>
>Dylan
>'85 Westy "Van Gogh"