Xantia Suspension question

[jvwykes]

Xantia fans

This week my Xantia has developed heavy steering. Did the usual oiling of the steering UJ and it hasn't helped. Steering is normal for a few miles then stiffens up. Brakes feel fine and the light goes out in 3 or 4 seconds. LHM is new just a few months since last change

With engine running i've checked for leaks and noticed that I don't hear the accumulator clicking, maybe occasionally every 2 or 3 mins, sometimes it takes longer.

Pushed the front down and it does not rise, but take the weight off and it bounces up.

Its very strange behaviour.

Any idea what could be failing, spheres or some other hydraulic component?

regards

James

[GiveMeABreak]

Sounds like the pressure is not being maintained - either that or there is air somewhere in the system. Maybe bleeding the system will help. The accumulator may not be generating enough pressure being another possibility - but one of the Xantia Gurus will be along shortly I'm sure.

[white exec]

Heavy/notchy steering is usually air in the LHM system, which often affects the steering before it affects the suspension. After the engine has been running for a while, or after a drive, dip a sample of fluid from the reservoir (with a small transparent container on the end of a piece of wire) and look to see if it contains any bubbles, microscopic or otherwise.

[jvwykes]

Chris you are correct. Ran the engine and I could see a few bubbles circulating. Turned the steering wheel a couple of times and when I looked into the reservoir it was full of bubbles. Lowered the suspension to low setting and it showed even more bubbles. I suspect the Accumulator sphere is not help here too

[Rhothgar]

Heavy/notchy steering is usually air in the LHM system, which often affects the steering before it affects the suspension. After the engine has been running for a while, or after a drive, dip a sample of fluid from the reservoir (with a small transparent container on the end of a piece of wire) and look to see if it contains any bubbles, microscopic or otherwise.

What does this indicate if there are microscopic bubbles, Chris?

That there is air getting in somewhere?

[GiveMeABreak]

Chris hasn't been on the Forum for a few years now, but this generally means there is air in the system.

[Rhothgar]

Chris hasn't been on the Forum for a few years now, but this generally means there is air in the system.

Thanks for letting me know and also confirming the answer, Marc.