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Hey! Im normally looking at the older F150's trying to keep up with my 89. I just picked up today, a 2009 F150 xl with a 2 valve 4.6! Only has 120k miles. The steering feels like the power steering pump is doing nothing. Are there any known common issues that would cause the pump to stop helping steer? Any ideas? Thanks! Ray
I assume that you checked your power steering fluid level and fluid doesn’t appear burnt.
Does the power steering appear to work for smaller turns and appear to be binding when fully turned?
If so, check the lower steering linkages to see if their unjoint linkages might be binding by applying some penetrating oil like on blaster or similar as this fella’s video shows.
I did check the fluid level and it was full. Not sure when or if its been changed. I drove it home yesterday 125 miles and no binding at all. I hate to just swap parts. How do I test a power steering pumps pressure?
In the past, one vehicle (not ford) that I owned had developed a leak in the low pressure hose which drew air into the line and pump causing loss of steering pressure. The symptom of this is that the fluid is foamed and then has loss of pressure.
in this video, you’ll notice that they attempt to purge the lines of air by turning the wheels back and forth a few times.
Well, at least it is possible to test it. Not sure where to get the proper gauge and fittings. I wonder if autozone or similar have a rental tool for pump testing. Thanks WHanson! I might just get a Cardone rebuilt unit and swap it out. My thinking is that the old pump has 120k miles on it. If it turns out to be something other then the pump, its one less part that could go bad in the future!
