No power steering at low r.p.m.

[ec1950]

I have had a P5B Saloon (1970) for a year or so and I have noticed that the power steering becomes harder to turn at low engine revs. This is most noticeable when I turn into my driveway with the engine just ticking over. As soon as I touch the throttle full power steering is restored. My question is whether this is normal or is it a fault that I should be concerned about? This is the only P5 I have ever driven, I had a P6 many years ago and I don't remember this happening. Any advice would be welcome.

[Mike’S-a-loon]

That seems normal to me.

[johnwp5bcoupe]

For the box to work well you need 500-700psi at lower revs say 500 this will drop depending on how good the pump output is? the max pump pressure can reach 1000psi if held on full LH lock! again depending on the pump and the pressure relief valve.

[djm16]

While too low an engine rpm will make the steering pump less effective, so will a slipping drive belt.