steering issues on a 250
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steering issues on a 250
i've got an 8" lift with 37" tires on a '05 250. it was having trouble with steering, for instance, the power steering will pull against you while just sitting with the wheel turned. it will pull for a second and let off, then it will pull again. this repeats several times. it pulls against you driving down the road going into a turn (gradual or sharp). so i tried putting a new steering stabilizer on the truck. i went with the fabtech dual stabilizers to help out. and they help out a bit, but the problem still exists. i took it by a shop real quick and they mentioned that it was possible the PS pump on its way out or the gear box connected to the steering. anyone else had this problem? anyone replaced the pump or gear box? if so, how hard was it? is it a day job? any tips? because i'm thinking this is my next step. thanks for any help.
Postmaster
Joined: Jan 2005
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From: Phenix City, AL
That does sound like the pump is pulsing and you're loosing assist. Not a real difficult switch, just messy. Get a Haynes manual and it'll walk you right through it.
Before you make a switch though, check the belt and make sure it's at the correct tension. If the belt is slipping, that may also be causing your problem and is a much cheaper fix.
Before you make a switch though, check the belt and make sure it's at the correct tension. If the belt is slipping, that may also be causing your problem and is a much cheaper fix.
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okay, how would i go about checking the belt tension? would i just put on a new belt to make sure (which i need to do anyways, they are starting to look pretty worn)? or do i just pull on the belt to make sure there is no play in it? sorry to sound so dumb here. just kinda learning these trucks.
thanks for the help though. i certainly appreciate it.
thanks for the help though. i certainly appreciate it.
Postmaster
Joined: Jan 2005
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From: Phenix City, AL
Look under the hood and find the belt tensioner. As you are looking at the front of the truck, it's right behind the fan on the left side.
There should be a notch (indicator marks) that indicate if the belt needs to be replaced. Outside the marks and you may not be getting the right amount of tension. Also, if the belt has more than 1" of play, it's too loose and the tensioner may need to be replaced.
The belt should be replaced at about 60,000 miles. If your over that, it may be way out of adjustment.
There should be a notch (indicator marks) that indicate if the belt needs to be replaced. Outside the marks and you may not be getting the right amount of tension. Also, if the belt has more than 1" of play, it's too loose and the tensioner may need to be replaced.
The belt should be replaced at about 60,000 miles. If your over that, it may be way out of adjustment.
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okay, ive got one replacement belt. but from the looks of it, there are two belts on this beast. ive got the 6.0l diesel w/ 2 alts. where would i find the second belt for this thing? that tensioner looks like a pain to get to. i'll check it out in the morning.
Postmaster
Joined: Jan 2005
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From: Phenix City, AL
I'm not real familiar with the diesel, but the belt you need to worry about is the one that is driving your PS pump. Also remember that those belts drive your water pump, alternator(s), etc.
Again, this is purely a check I would make before replacing that PS pump.
Again, this is purely a check I would make before replacing that PS pump.
