1991 Camry V6 Power Steering issues

[karting007]

Guys,
I replaced the tranny and other components recently in my 1991 Camry. During the process I did empty the power steering fluid from the reservior during the process. We attached all of the hose and lines during the install and filled with power steering fluid. It worked fine for about two days and now it is like it totally quit working. We have checked the level of fluid and it has leaked some but we refilled. It is like driving a truck with no power steering. I have checked the belt and it appears to be good to go. Is there anything else that I am missing to check? Could there be air in the line and could this cause this issue. Please let me know your thoughts. Thanks!

[Doctor J]

The air will cause fluid in reservoir to foam.
I 've seen several issues when adding the power steering fluid (which is basically a straigt mineral oil in a fancy bottle) caused "morning sickness" of the steering (it is hard for about 10 seconds right after start in cold weather and then normal - my car has that too). This is due to the piston seal in the rack If you are positive that there are no leaks, drain the system and put Dexron III in it. If it does not help add 1/2 pint bottle of Trans-X treatment and see what happens.
Also make sure that there are no sharp kinks on the high pressure hose.

[white90dx]

As Dr. J said, the power steering fluid should be Dexron ATF.

Are there any sounds (mooing, etc.) when you turn the wheel? With the engine running and the front end off the ground, have you gone from steering lock to steering lock multiple times to clear bubbles form the steering rack?

It sounds like there is something deeper going on, but hopefully it is something simple like this.

-Charlie

[karting007]

Actually, I placed the car up on stands over the weekend and turned the wheels side to side and the issue went away, It appears to be working fine at this time. Thanks for your help guys, could not have done this without you all!!