stiff power steering

[plothead]

Team

I'm trying to determine whether my power steering on my newly acquired 2011 Ranger is working as it should.

Right now, the steering is extremely stiff. There's no way I could do a one-handed "palm turn" when backing into a parking spot and looking over my shoulder. In most situations, I need both hands on the wheel just to make normal turns.

I understand some of that may be due to the slow steering box (5–6 turns lock-to-lock?), but it still feels much stiffer than any other power-steering vehicle I've owned, including Broncos, Explorers, Subarus, and Toyotas.

I've also noticed that after making a turn, the steering wheel tends to snap back slightly on its own, similar to an old manual-steering setup—although not nearly as aggressively.

For reference, I've got 108K miles, and I'm running 235/75R15 tires. As it sits now, I can't imagine going any larger, since steering is already such a challenge.

Should the steering be this stiff?

The power steering fluid was filthy black when I bought it, so I flushed the system. That helped a little, but not much. I also noticed a light coating of grime around the passenger-side steering gear "boot" and around the inlet/outlet fittings on the power steering pump.

Does this sound more like a failing power steering pump, a worn steering gear, or possibly both?

If replacement is the likely fix, how difficult is it to install a new or rebuilt pump and/or steering gear? I've got reasonable skills but limited time.

Thanks much for any insights!
C

 

[Bird76Mojo]

I would guess that a bypass valve is stuck open in the pump or the high pressure line has a restriction.

 

[PetroleumJunkie412]

I also have a 2011. Steering is much lighter than it should be when everything works correctly. You definitely have an issue.

 

[SenorNoob]

I've made attempts to tighten my steering. It's WAY to light IMO. Of course I have power steering and a giant steering wheel. I'm considering a steering stabilizer just for that purpose. (I know it doesn't help with steering links being unlevel.)

Edit: Just remembered 2011 is gonna be rack and pinion. Post some pics of the wheels from the front and both sides with the wheels straight. Maybe the alignment is way off making it harder to turn? Even tire pressure could cause some if it's low enough for the sidewall to flex excessively before it moves, but I'd think you'd notice that pretty quick.