Skylark L4-138 2.3L DOHC VIN D MFI (1988)
Drive Belt: All Technical Service Bulletins
Steering - Chatter/Stiff Steering When Cold
Bulletin
89-3-16
Date
May, '89
Ref. No.
89-126-3
Corp. Ref. No. 973202
SUBJECT:
(STEERING CHATTER/STIFF STEERING WHEN COLD (ADJUST POWER STEERING PUMP BELT TENSION)
MODELS AFFECTED: 1988-89 SKYLARKS WITH 2.3L ENGINES
On some 1988-89 Skylarks 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 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.
