hi every one. I have not been on here in a while. just bought a 08 F150 Fx4. the steering is pretty stiff to turn at a stand still or on the road while driving. is this steering supposed to be stiff because it is a FX4? It has no whining or binding. it does have power steering fluid in it though. I do not know if that is the problem as the manual says mercon V. its almost like manual steering but easier. is this because of the off road package? is their anything to check? for example. power steering pressure switch
thanks

 

Well these year trucks are known for weak pumps and failed steering gear spool valves. I would bet money it's a bad steering gear.

 

See if you can find another, similar model at a dealership to test drive and compare. I'd expect a pump going bad to make some noise, and since it is easier than manual steering, I've gotta think the pump is at least working somewhat. x2 on the steering gear...

 

The U-joint in the steering shaft is known to lock up. You can buy a Dorman shaft, but it's likely the steering wheel will be crooked after installing it.

 

ok, a little stupid here. I checked the air pressure in the tires. they were pretty low. they did not look low to the eye but they were. put the correct amount of air in the tires and it steers totally different now. its not like steering a car with steering assist or anything but it became way, way easier. it almost feels like driving a car with (sport) steering.

 

thanks for the suggestions. it still may be the other problems also.