if i drive through a puddle, the steering will lock up andwill only turn a little bit.
it returns to normal after about a minute.

whatcan be causing the lockup

 

Is it in a puddle or just when it gets into a bind? Like hitting a bump or pot hole? Could be the control valve at the top of the steering gear. They have seals that seperate the ports in it. If they are worn it can flow to two directions at the same time. "locking up" There is a check valve in the back of the pump that could be weak too. But, more than likely is the gear valve. Meaning replace the gear.

Hope that helps
Larry

 

its only when i go through puddles

 

Your power steering belt is loose.

Puddle splashes water onto belt.
Belt slips.
Steering gets tight.

If you do some serious barbell work, you'll stop noticing it when it happens.



- Eric

 

Replace the belt.

 

ok ill look into replacing the belt, too lazy to do barbell work lol