Hey guys:
I have a '97 GMC Sierra Z71, and a weird problem. I hope this hasn't been covered before, as I did a search in the general tech too. Here goes...
When I have the truck in a steady turn, such as an on-ranp or a smooth corner, the steering seems to jump or jerk. It only happens for a split second, then it's fine until the next time. It's really hard to describe, but it's like there is an air bubble in the power steering or something. The truck has had a new idler arm, pitman arm, wheel bearing, and alignment sinceI got it. The steering is tight, and nothing feels loose to me.
I have a buddy who had the same problem, but he got rid of his truck and never got it fixed.
Anyone else have this problem or a suggestion??
Thanks in advance,
Dan

 

IF your truck has a steering wheel position sensor located at the bottom end of the steering column, I would suspect that as the problem. Your description of your problem is typical of a failure of that item. The sensor is for Electronic Variable Oriface steering assist control.

 

this must be a fairly commom problem. i have noticed that with my truck too. it feels like the steering column gets caught on something, then slips or jerkspast it. i will have to look into that sensor. thanks for the help!

 

I just read this post and it seems like I have the same problem on my 97' GM. I was wondering if this sensor you were talking about fixed the problem?

 

sensors were terrible on those for conking out

 

Whereis this sensor found on the truck and how much to relace one?

 

I have a 1998 Sierra and had the same problems too. When i would turn a sharp corner (i.e in a parking lot stall) and try to brake the steering would jerk and the brakes wouldn't stop the truck, thus making me look like an *** as i jump the curb. I had work done on it, check your cv joints and bearings, my bearings somehow got so bad that something began to rub on the caliper which ruined that as well, also check you're steering sensor, but if you get a scantool thats real easy.

 

I have no idea of your mechanical knowledge/tools,but the sensor is not too tuff...its at the base of the steering column.
a gm runs around a 100 bucks

 

You mentioned ascan tool to check for a failed sensor. I was wondeing if a hypertech would pick up the failed sensor or if this failed sensor would set off the check engine light?

 

no...only a 4k tech 2 scanner can read codes in all these other modules,like the esc module,where the steering codes are