I recently bought a 2006 Lariat. It was fine until about a week ago. I find the steering has really stiffened. Not total loss of power steering but still noticeable. The fluid is fine. Any ideas on how I can troubleshoot this myself?

 

I had that same thing when I bought my 04. Theres a knuckle under the hood on the steering shaft that may need lubricated. I soaked it in pb blaster and it works fine now. Many say it will need replaced but its not a cheap part and you have to get it through ford... good luck!

 

Thanks. I'll give it a try.

 

That knuckle right there. It's like right next to the dipstick. Here's a pic I snapped for ya if it attaches

 

There are actually 2 u joints. There is another down towards the pump.
Spray worked for me too. Actually sprayed it again today.
I had it bad to the point of making a turn and the wheel would get stuck.

 

Slop some grease all over both joints for your best interim result until you can afford replacement. I've seen the mid shafts on eBay for bout $200 and need to do mine myself.

 

Mine would too after about a quarter of a turn it was weird

 

Dorman makes the shaft also

 

I didnt know that! Probably a cost effective option. I havent had any more issues so I put it on the back burner for now

 

Mine is doing something similar, about a quarter turn is where I notice it most (mainly on the return to center).