so i've had this 98 lincoln navigator for about a year, and now my power steering fluid is leaking and it feels like i am driving a rock. now is it necessary to remove the radiator fan in order to get to remove the steering pump pulley?

 

You should have pretty easy access without removing the radiator, using a long 1/2" ratchet to unweighted the tensioner pully.

Remember, "pretty easy" is a relative term here.

If it's leaking, many times it could just be a connection or hose failure. If you let it run low, it can feel like a bad pump. If run too long without fluid, yes a bad pump.

 

Removing the front left wheel and the wheel well skirt opens up the whole left side of the engine and makes the job much easier.