89 240dl,steering is very stiff when turning left, normal when turn to right side, it happen only in the cold morning when just started, it's normal after 2 - 3 miles of driving, belt tension checked ok, fluid ok hoses no leak, any one got idea ?
Tom

I agree with Jon,except I would use something better than wd-40 to lube the joints.A squirt can with engine oil, 3-in-1 oil or liquid wrench.Squirt them and work the steering wheel lock to lock.Worked for me.
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philvo

This is otherwise known as steering "Morning Sickness". Mine (240 1990) did that for a couple of years before I replaced the steering rack. Not too hard of a job. Before you go to this cost and effort try flushing the steering fluid and replacing it with a synthetic. It may help. The easy way of replacing the fluid is to get something to suck the fluid out of the resivour (spelling?). Suck it dry, refill, drive car a day, and repeat the next two or three days.

This is the simple way. I do this annually now. You may need to flush it the standard way, by disconnecting the return line at the resivour, put the line in a container, crank engine a little, refill, crank again etc. Maybe better info on this procedure in another post.

Hope this helps.

240owner,
I would also add that you might want to lubricate the steering shaft universal joints/couplers with some WD40 -or other lubricant of your choice- before you replce the reack. They are in the engine compartment and basically connect the steering wheel to the rack. There are two pairs on the steering column shaft... just wet them down and drive... Repeat if necessary.
Definitely, flush your power steering fluid as a part of your Volvo's yearly maintainence. And, check to make sure the tie rod ends, boots, and hoses are'nt shadey looking. Peace, Jon