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Possible Power Steering problem?

Hello, thought I would ask for some advice here if I could. I have a

1981 Datsun 200sx that I suspect has power steering and/or AC problems. Last weekend I noticed that the car was making a lot of racket when parked on a incline with the AC going. After turning off the AC the noise subsided and was quiet after turning AC back on.

This weekend when starting the car I noticed a burning smell coming from the engine compartment and a bit of squealing under the hood. It largely subsided when warmed up and on the highway. Today when starting the car again I noticed a burning smell from the engine and the steering wheel was noticeably harder to turn, as well as a bit of smoke from under the hood after parking it to check out the problem. I immediately checked the power steering fluid and it was full. I drove the car a bit and it seems as if the power assisted steering is gone.

From my description could anyone tell me what the problem might be? Are the AC and power steering systems connected or do the work independent of each other? Thanks for any tips.

LP

Reply to
Luke Perry
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One of the accessory devices has frozen up. The pulley is not turning any more. The burning smell is friction from the belt being forced past the pulley. Turn on the AC and start the engine. Open the hood and watch. Whichever pulley is not turning is the problem.

Reply to
E. Meyer

I'm surprised the AC still works on your old car. You must maintain it well. It's possible that the AC compressor is beginning to seize. But it might be as simple as needing a new belt and adjustment. The slipping belt could explain the loss of power assist. You could check for tightness with the engine turned off.

Reply to
MaxAluminum

I'm surprised the AC still works on your old car. You must maintain it well. It's possible that the AC compressor is beginning to seize. But it might be as simple as needing a new belt and adjustment. The slipping belt could explain the loss of power assist. You could check for tightness with the engine turned off.

Reply to
MaxAluminum

I'm surprised the AC still works on your old car. You must maintain it well. It's possible that the AC compressor is beginning to seize. But it might be as simple as needing a new belt and adjustment. The slipping belt could explain the loss of power assist. You could check for tightness with the engine turned off.

Reply to
MaxAluminum

I'm surprised the AC still works on your old car. You must maintain it well. It's possible that the AC compressor is beginning to seize. But it might be as simple as needing a new belt and adjustment. The slipping belt could explain the loss of power assist. You could check for tightness with the engine turned off.

Reply to
MaxAluminum

I'm surprised the AC still works on your old car. You must maintain it well. It's possible that the AC compressor is beginning to seize. But it might be as simple as needing a new belt and adjustment. The slipping belt could explain the loss of power assist. You could check for tightness with the engine turned off.

Reply to
MaxAluminum

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