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Power Steering Problems

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Old Dec 12, 2010 | 11:05 PM
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Default Power Steering Problems

So when I make turns at slow speeds, the truck starts whining and I don't know what the deal is. A little background, the pickup is a 2008 F150 SCREW 4.6L 2WD, 36k miles. The TPS came on today when I was on my way back from work and I started to noticed the whining when I went to pick up some brews. I'm almost positive the tires aren't the issue because I had some Yokohama's on it before they gave me lots of problems and I got a great deal on some BFGs. I get problems when I make slow turns into a parking spot or like making 3 point turns, and it's not only whining but the truck becomes hard to turn, sort of like my old Farmall on pavement. The truck is under warranty still, but I don't want to take it to the stealership (I used to put up with them when I had my '97) and they amass all sorts of problems or keep it forever because I can't afford to be driven around for weeks. Any help is appreciated
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Old Dec 12, 2010 | 11:37 PM
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same thing happened to my 08, pump went out at 56000
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Old Dec 12, 2010 | 11:41 PM
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Sounds like the power steering fluid is low. Top it off and see if that helps. Might have a leak...
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Old Dec 12, 2010 | 11:56 PM
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I'll check the fluid in the morning when I check the tires, top it off if needed and look for leaks since my truck will be parked all day since I gotta study...in the case something has gone horribly wrong I will take it in, though I hate to wait till thursday when I could find time to take it into the shop.
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Old Dec 13, 2010 | 12:10 AM
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Just a heads up: sometimes, it only leaks when the wheels are being turned, so just letting it sit may not show drops on the ground. Good luck. :-/
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Old Dec 13, 2010 | 12:40 AM
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Originally Posted by John.F150
Just a heads up: sometimes, it only leaks when the wheels are being turned, so just letting it sit may not show drops on the ground. Good luck. :-/
Thanks for the tip I'll keep that in mind tomorrow.
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Old Dec 13, 2010 | 10:02 AM
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My truck does the same thing. I think its the pump but I'm gonna wait untill it gets worst before I replace it.
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Old Dec 18, 2010 | 06:05 PM
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So I checked my power steering fluid the other day and it was about a 1/4 inch below the min line. Is this why it's having trouble turning? I haven't noticed any leaks but I'm still monitoring it. I went to dealership today and they won't be able to get it done till next week. Also, if I add some ps fluid, do I have to use Motorcraft?
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Old Dec 18, 2010 | 06:40 PM
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i would use lucas powersteering fluid... or something like that...

my powersteering pump and rack and pinion went out at 14000 miles....
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Old Dec 18, 2010 | 06:45 PM
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But is it safe to mix the Motorcraft stuff that is already in it and Lucas, or any other brand?
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