I noticed a considerable tightening in the steering gear as I was driving last week, I could turn the wheel and it would stay in that position all by itself until I move it. The next few days it was working as always and then today it started acting up again, the fluid level is up with no leaks, belt ok, steering shaft is in great shape, outside temperature has been steady and no suspension problems. Steering box is about 13 years old with no previous problems, any one out there have this problem?

"bowties in the rearview mirror"

 

raise it up on stands or something safe, and check to see if you have a binding steering stabilizer shock,ball joints,or any other steering part binding,before replacing steering gearbox.

 

2wd or 4wd ? 4wd, then I'd start with the axle U joints.

 

Well there is nothing wrong with the 4X running gear, u-joints, suspension, everything is tight so I guess I will start saving for a rebuilt steering box and pump for the old girl. It does not seem to be getting any worse but I know it will any way. Thanks for the help guys.

"bowties in the rearview mirror"