1995 E34 Power Steering issues! please help

[STP111]

Hello. I have a 95 530i that is starting to show power steering issues.. the car is starting to get hard to turn, and the steering wheel itself is making a "squeeking" sound... are these symptoms indicative of a failing pump, or would the p/s gearbox fail first? there aren't any leaks that I'm aware of, and the fluid level in the reservoir is ok.... any idea'rs???
thanks for your help

[BoldUlysses]

A failing PS system is usually characterized by leaks and/or groaning of the pump under high-load situations, like parking lots.

A squeaking steering wheel doesn't mean a thing as far as the PS system. Mine squeaks when it's cold out; do a search for "steering wheel squeak" and you'll get a number of fixes.

As far as the wheel being harder to turn, have you checked your tire pressure lately? That can have a surprising large effect on turning effort.

Cliffs: Check the easy stuff first.

-Matt