I bought a GS300 Mk1 a few weeks back and I have found the power steering very heavy. Its working (as its even heavier with the engine turned off!) I've also noticed that when turning the steering wheel there is a squeaking which seems to be coming from under the bonnet, and not from inside the car.
I've changed the power steering fluid, and will change it again a couple of times (syringing off from the reservoir) but no difference yet.
Any ideas what this could be?

Have you checked if the belt is slipping? Get someone to turn lock to lock while you watch and listen to the belt. If it appears to stop or slip, you may need a new belt or tensioner.

[quote name='TigerFish' post='713554' date='Mar 15 2010, 03:02 PM']Have you checked if the belt is slipping? Get someone to turn lock to lock while you watch and listen to the belt. If it appears to stop or slip, you may need a new belt or tensioner.[/quote]

If the belt is slipping, won't it be slipping all the time? The steering noise is only when turning the wheels, or would this put more stress on the belt and possibly cause it to slip and creak?

[quote name='JemP' post='713708' date='Mar 16 2010, 08:46 AM'][quote name='TigerFish' post='713554' date='Mar 15 2010, 03:02 PM']Have you checked if the belt is slipping? Get someone to turn lock to lock while you watch and listen to the belt. If it appears to stop or slip, you may need a new belt or tensioner.[/quote]

If the belt is slipping, won't it be slipping all the time? The steering noise is only when turning the wheels, or would this put more stress on the belt and possibly cause it to slip and creak?
[/quote]

Yup, there is more strain when the steering is being turned, especially at full lock.