Okay, so I got a new power steering pump. I installed it, along with a new pressure and return line, and my steering is really stiff! I bled the system, and I don't believe there is any air left in the lines. What else could it be?

 

AT4,

Raise the front of the car. USE JACK STANDS! Grease the steering (all nine fittings) and unlock the column. Grab one of the front tires around the front and rear, and try to "steer" the wheels by turning by hand. You should be able to move the wheels from stop to stop. It may take a little effort to get started, but then should move more easily. If you cannot move the wheels, you may have a tight gearbox, sticking idler arm or other component. If the wheels move easily, start the car and turn the wheels by moving the steering wheel from lock to lock several times. This should dispel any air left in the system so you can top off the reservoir. Once the system is bled and filled, it should work normally if you have installed the correct pump. Of course, the idle speed should be correct and the belt must not be slipping, but you already knew that.

If the pump cannot develop adequate pressure, return it for a replacement, and make sure you specify you need a pump for a WS6 Trans Am, not a Firebird. The pressure relief may be set a little lower on the "regular" pump, or you may have a bad rebuilt pump.