I'm stumped... Power Steering resistance

[bbbc3]

Ok, so I just replaced the steering gear box seals and the high pressure and return lines between the pump and gear box.

The problem is that now there seems to be drag or resistance when steering. The power steering works but it isn't as effortless as it was before replacing parts.

I have the truck on jack stands right now. With the truck off, I can grab the front wheel and turn it back and forth. It is hard to steer at first, but as I keep turning it from lock to lock it gets easier and is effortless. During this time the power steering fluid rises to the lip of the spout. When I stop the fluid lowers and when I start to turn it by hand again it has resistance again, then becomes effortless and the cycle starts over.

I know this is long winded but does anyone know what would cause this?

 

[bbbc3]

Also, I replaced the fluid with AutoZone power steering fluid.

 

[AndyB.]

If it just has resistance when the wheels are straight, it sounds as though there is too much preload gear mesh. How did you set this when you replaced the seals for the sector shaft?

 

[bbbc3]

If it just has resistance when the wheels are straight, it sounds as though there is too much preload gear mesh. How did you set this when you replaced the seals for the sector shaft?

I honestly do not know what you are talking about? I didn't do anything.

 

[AndyB.]

When you replaced the seals, you disassembled the gear box, right?

Loosen the 5/8 lock nut over the sector shaft, back out the screw 1/8 of a turn and see if it improves.

 

[bbbc3]

When you replaced the seals, you disassembled the gear box, right?

Loosen the 5/8 lock nut over the sector shaft, back out the screw 1/8 of a turn and see if it improves.

I just replaced the seals on the gear box right above the pitman arm.

 

[bbbc3]

I just tried to back out the screw from the 5/8 lock nut and it isn't budging!

 

[AndyB.]

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=CSSibRlcoiY

 

[adsm08]

Did you center the box properly when you put it back in?

 

[Shran]

^ what he said or you have not bled enough air out of the system. Usually air removes itself pretty quickly but sometimes not, resulting in dead spots where you have no power steering.

 

[jeremysdad]

Not the cause of your issue, but replace your power steering fluid with the Type F automatic transmission fluid the system calls for.