Two problems related to power steering pump have been reported for the 1998 Dodge Grand Caravan. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Power steering belt comes off when driving through snow greater than 6 inches in depth. Caused sudden loss of power steering and loss of vehicle control. Technical bulletin from repair shop indicates that the tensioner arm on this model is defective (insufficiant tension to keep belt on), and that it needs a snow shield. Snow under vehicle gets pushed into belt assembly causing belt to fall off. Technical bulletin indicates the corrective procedure (stronger tensioning arm and snow shield) will be covered only if vehicle is under warranty. For questions, please use e-mail address. The work phone listed will only be current until 01/24/00. New work phone is undetermined at this time.
During rain, snow, or icy conditions, the accessory belt pully or idler gets wet and the belt comes off resulting in loss of power steering, power brakes, alternator, etc. This has happened on 4 separate occasions, the most recently 04/22/01 during a rain storm in chicago. I believe that there is a sheild or something missing to prevent water, snow, and/or ice from splashing up onto the belt pullies.