Power steering grinding noise

[Huntintruck]

I purchased a used 2000 GMC Sierra 1500 4.8, auto 4X4(repo purchased as-is). It has a steering noise, that I thought was a grinding rubbing noise in the steering column. Now I know the noise is coming from the front end, but can't locate the exact source of the noise. It only makes the noise when turning left, it steers normally. I read some post about some seals in the steering box causing this problem. My mechanic has seen that problem, and says that problem is a low pitched moan. This noise is a higher pitched scratching and sometimes louder grinding metalic noise. It only does this when turning left. The mechanic put the truck on a rack, no weight on the wheels, and it does not make the noise. He ran out of time for further testing until monday. Any suggestions?

 

Thanks,

[heavy4x4]

I've got the same issue...a groan when only turning left, which seems to emit from the steering wheel or steering column. I'd like some input on this too.

 

Thanks,

-Steve

[GM-Tech]

That noise when turning left that's caused by the steering box is not always a "moan" and can sound different from vehicle to vehicle, occurance to occurance.

 

Without hearing it, I couldn't say if this is what you have, but any other type of problem that causes a noise is usually not so directional specific. If something were rubbing, for instance, I would think it would rub whether you're turning left or right.