2003 F-150 4x4 steering problem
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2003 F-150 4x4 steering problem
I have a 2003 F-150 4x4 with 46000 miles. Recently I have noticed a problem with the power steering expecially when going around a curve. When you turn the steering wheel, it is fine until you stop turning the wheel, then it acts almost like you have hit a "hard spot" or some resistance in the steering. You can turn the wheel while sitting still and it does fine until you stop, then it is like it "fights" you to stay at a certain spot. I took it to the local ford dealer this morning and the mechanic stated the gear box may need to replaced along with the power steering pump. His suggestion though was to put some rear end additive to lubricate the power steering to remove the "surge" or "fighting" of the power steering. I have checked the air pressure of the tires and they are at 35 psi, so that is not an issue. I am open to any suggestions. I love this truck and would not own any thing else! With 46M miles, would it help to change out the fluid to a synthetic to help this problem too? Thanks!
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 1,496
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From: Simpsonville, KY
Both my 1999 and my 2002 do that. Seems pretty normal to me... maybe yours is just excessive? Both mine (4x4, 5.4L) seemed to have a little tug back towards true, but not more than a finger's worth of pressure to hold it straight, unless I was turned all the way one way or the other.
Postmaster
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 4,038
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From: South Kitsap County, WA
Have you looked at the tie rod ends or ball joints? A warn joint will develop this symptom as well.
I have tie rods that, when I removed them, are extremely difficult to rotate by any means other than a vice and brute strength. You can reinstall them in the truck and you think they're fine and the pump is the issue.
Ball joints can also have similar "wear" spots. You reach the point in the joint where the tire/wheel cann't travel any further on a daily basis. That can cause a sticking point and make it difficult to turn back.
Both are fixed by replacement only. Most likely it's not the pump.
-Kerry
I have tie rods that, when I removed them, are extremely difficult to rotate by any means other than a vice and brute strength. You can reinstall them in the truck and you think they're fine and the pump is the issue.
Ball joints can also have similar "wear" spots. You reach the point in the joint where the tire/wheel cann't travel any further on a daily basis. That can cause a sticking point and make it difficult to turn back.
Both are fixed by replacement only. Most likely it's not the pump.
-Kerry
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When you completely turn the wheel in either direction there is no hesitation like a hard spot on the ball joint. The only time you notice the problem is when you turn the wheel around 1/4 turn and then stop and you will feel the wheel pull slightly in the other direction, almost like it is fighting you. I thought about the ball joints when I first felt the problem, but with the low mileage it has and these are permanently sealed joints, I looked elsewhere for the problem. I'll look again though, thanks for the suggestion.
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