The pas belt is getting a bit stiff and is due for replacement on my blob wagon; for some time the steering wheel has juddered on lock whilst parking, but today I noticed that it also causes the revs to climb marginally, just like when the a/c comes on. Will a belt change cure this, or is something more sinister going on, like imminent pump failure ? Thanks

 

The revs are meant to increase when the engine is around tickover speed and the steering wheel is turned,this is to stop the car stalling.

 

Really never noticed it before; thanks

 

Hi mate, sounds like a similar think I had on my last WR1. When parking and low speeds, felt like power steering wasn't doing much and bit of judder.
I spent a lot of time and money trying to sort with replacing pas pump, fluid and belt with not much difference!
Turned out it was a semi seized UJ knuckle joint. There are two of these down the back of the engine connecting the wheel to the rack. Try spraying these with WD40 first and repeat then grease up later. I made a longer straw to connect to the can or do from beneath if remove the tray. A quick easy try first before going to lots of expense like I did!!
Hope that helps.