My steering locks up! 2nd gen Runner

[SimplyTanner]

Hey guys, here's a fun one... Yesterday while in my '93 4Runner I drove through a 6" deep puddle in a parking lot. The usual big splash occurred and then my steering instantly locked up. Meaning, I could barely force my steering wheel to turn in either direction. After 15 seconds or so of trying to force the wheel back and forth it started to give and then it completely freed up. All steering went back to normal and I was able to drive home just fine. So today I tried it again...same exact results. Here's my first random thought, It feels like water is splashing up and possibly filling my [leaky] steering dampner. And then I work the water back out by seesawing my steering wheel, and everything can move freely again. I guess water could get in the steering box if it had a leak, but it doesn't leak any fluid ever....any thoughts? I'm going to remove the dampner and try it again.

 

[Bogo]

How about the steering pump pulley getting wet so belt slips. Pump doesn't turn so no assist on the steering.

 

[ntsqd]

On cold mornings my steering is close to your description. Once it warms up the problem goes away, telling me that I need to get the pump rebuilt.

 

[SimplyTanner]

A slipping belt is a thought... The symptoms match that theory somewhat. I haven't heard any squealing or slipping belts but that doesn't mean it isn't happening. It does seem weird that a belt would slip because of some water, unless it's noticeably loose or old and hardened. Which is not the case here. I'll do some more diagnosing today and report back. Thanks guys