Short version: Steering is perfect on startup, but becomes extremely stiff after a minute of idling.

Full version: So we replaced my power steering pump today and replaced the high pressure hose. On startup after the replacement, the steering was easy as cake, but would occasionally jerk a little randomly. Then, after a minute or two, the steering got EXTREMELY stiff. I couldn't even turn the wheel. Then after couple hours, we started it again, and the same thing happened, although not AS stiff. The power steering fluid is brown (probably from dirt during install).

If anyone knows anything about this, I'd appreciate some info!

 

Maybe you have air trapped somewhere

 

Possibly, we supposedly bled the system by turning the wheel at full lock left and right multiple times.

We are going to replace the fluid in the morning with the ford recommended fluid, hopefully that helps

 

If putting fresh fluid does not help it would be a safe bet the steering box needs replacement. Seals may be worn out in it and as the fluid heats up its slipping past the seals.

 

So we replaced the nasty steering fluid the following morning. It did a few weird things at first, but it's perfect now. Thanks guys!