I have a 97z28 and I think the power steering died on it. Was acting erractic (on and off for a minute) and it is very hard to turn the steering wheel. Does this mean the pump is shot, is it safe to drive it like this as long as I keep in mind to turn harder. Is it possible that it is a fuse or something else?

 

I just noticed that my waterpump or a hose is leaking like crazy over the pullies. Im guessing that was making it slip or something. Is that what is causing it then? Ill have to get it fixed.

 

Yes when the belt gets wet you loose power steering. Check to see if the waterpump is leaking out the weep hole (bottom of the waterpump). Common failure; you'll need to replace the waterpump and hope your opti didn't get soaked in the process.