I have a 2006 S-Crew, 5.4L, 4X4, with 72K. Since summer I've had it off in the fields several times cutting firewood, and in the last month to 6 weeks it's developed problems with the steering. It turns hard, then gets through a sticking point, and is easier (but not p/s easy), then sticks again.

At first I thought it was related to the 4X4 system--it turns like the hubs and driveline are partially engaged, but the tires are not skipping like it's all locked in during turns. For other reasons I replaced the shift motor last year, and the solenoid three weeks ago to solve this problem, and am still having steering issues.

I've topped off the power steering fluid (it was at the lower limit); when I look under the truck, there is oil on the lower control arm near the driveshaft (passenger side front), but it seems to be coming from a small hole in the steering boot. Is there an easy way to tell if I need to replace the steering gear (not ideal!!), or if there's someplace else this is getting hung up?

Thanks in advance!!

 

maybe your steering shaft is binding, i heard of some people spraying it down where it comes out of the cab and it helps solving the problem

 

I WD-40'd the universal joints on the steering shaft, and it's back to normal. Still gonna have to replace the steering boot, though, just to be safe. My Hanes manual says to use new tie-rod ends when replacing the boot--will I have to replace them on both sides, or will it be OK to do just the side I'm replacing the boot?

 

that im not sure of. but im glad the WD-40 did the trick, yea i would trust haynes, or i would ask the dealership sometimes you can get there opinion and some techs will help you out for a few bucks or some food lol

 

Great thread.
I was having the same problem of hard steering but no noise in the pump. I sprayed WD-40 on all the knuckle joints of the steering shaft and it loosened the steering again in no time.

 

I had the same problem and brought it to my mechanic. He replaced the power steering pump, and it did nothing. He was about to order the rack when I came across this thread. I sprayed wd40 on upper and lower steering u joints and it now turns like butter. The wheel also returns after a turn as opposed to having to pull it back after each turn. You guys saved me another 700 bucks for a rack that would have done nothing to fix my problem. Now lets see if the mechanic gives me at least some of my money back for the pump.