how sensitive is power steering supposed to be?

[davegee]

Are you supposed to be able to one-finger steer a 56?
My power assist works, but if going slow it might need a second hand.

Just not sure what I should be expecting... to determine if it can be improved.

I'm wondering if it should be more like a mid-60's Cadillac
Thanks

[jdsnoddy]

Dave:
You should be able to steer at all speeds with your single index finger. John

[davegee]

That is very helpful.
Thank you

[Don Henschel]

Is your belt loose? If you hear it making noise and possibly slipping, this will make things more difficult to steer while parking or if car isn't moving. This is when you need more power compared to when the car is driving down the street.

[davegee]

Thanks for your post, Don.
No loose belt noise. Very quiet functioning system. PS does work. It just doesn't work like one finger touch.
i noticed the fluid is not red. Probably wrong fluid has been put in over the years. Looks like that universal, more clear type, fluid.
It is also seeping out of the bottom gear box seal.

I bought a new PS filter, both hoses, lower gear box seal, and Dexron III fluid.

Seemed that I should begin with correct fluid (seems wrong) for sure. Replace old probably soft hoses, new filter, and hopefully be able to pull that seal and replace all at the same time.