Four problems related to steering rack have been reported for the 1997 Chevrolet Venture. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
The consumer took the vehicle in for recall repair 02v286000 on 03/31/03. The dealer replaced the lower pinion bearings but advised the consumer that the rack assembly was bad but this repair would not be covered under recall. Dealer advised consumer that their agreement with manufacturer was to replace bearings only.
The recall which was performed on the consumer's vehicle failed. Recall # 02 v 286 000.
While going around a curve steering wheel completely locked up, resulting in loss of control. Van had to be towed to dealership. A broken steering rack assembly was found. Dealership and owner split repair cost.
When vehicle is being driven and a right or left turn is made, a thumping noise occurs within steering rack. Please give any further details.