Power steering issues while wheeling

[Darkhorse11]

I'm having a hard time with my power steering while out on the trails. Last Saturday was the 3rd time it has happened and the 2nd time after replacing the power steering pump. My Jeep is my daily driver so I don't do anything too extreme but when we go out I'd call it moderate. The last two times I've done something semi technical where the steering is getting a pretty good workout I will lose about 90% of my power steering.

This can last for a few hours like it did Saturday or a few days like the previous times. I can't seem to get a grasp of what would cause this much less why it corrects itself later. Is there some kind of pressure check valve that is engaging? Power steering is not my best subject by any means. Mystery to me. Anyone else ever experience this?

2011 JKUR, Auto, 4" lift, 35" tires
Thank you!

 

[BLACKJKU]

Maybe the fluid is getting hot, might add a cooler.

 

[Chris]

First off, adding a power steering cooler would be a smart idea. Secondly, adding a transmission cooler is an absolute must. On 35s, your 42RLE transmission isn't going to last long without a cooler, trust me on that.

In addition, if you're having a hard time steering off-road, I highly recommend a PSC hydro-assist setup. It will include a cooler and make things much easier to steer off-road (and be much easier on your power steering pump / steering box as well).

 

[Darkhorse11]

First off, adding a power steering cooler would be a smart idea. Secondly, adding a transmission cooler is an absolute must. On 35s, your 42RLE transmission isn't going to last long without a cooler, trust me on that.

In addition, if you're having a hard time steering off-road, I highly recommend a PSC hydro-assist setup. It will include a cooler and make things much easier to steer off-road (and be much easier on your power steering pump / steering box as well).

Thanks Chris. I might consider a steering cooler but I just can't imagine I need to add something to this rig when tons of my friends with the same type rigs do way harder obstacles that I do. My Trans is pretty good to go. (again I really don't wheel that hard) I had it rebuilt a few months ago with a HD torque converter and deeper pan. I'm thinking maybe I have air in the lines and didn't bleed it very well? When it gets hot the air bubbles expand or something? I have an oil pan leak that I am putting it up on the lift this week to fix I'll probably also give the bleeding another go to make sure.