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Old Jun 9, 2007 | 12:47 PM
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Question Steering issue

I have a 2003 F250 4WD. 4 inch lift with 315/75/16 tires. When i have the brake pedaal depressed at an idle the steering is very hard, almost like There is no power steering. As soon as the pedal is released the steering is easier. The dealership stated it is because I put large tires on. However I was also told by others this is not the case. Any help?
 
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Old Jun 9, 2007 | 01:20 PM
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Yes, bigger tires are harder to turn if they can't or are not moving. It's a matter of torque and ground type. With the brake pedal depressed, the wheels are not allowed to move to reduce some of the load on the steering system. Because it can't shift the load into some movement, you have to overcome both the additional tire hieght and width.
 

Last edited by ReAX; Jun 9, 2007 at 01:23 PM.
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Old Jun 9, 2007 | 06:48 PM
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I have a similar problem on my new-to-me 2003 250. Turning the steering wheel when not moving feels like the power steering can't do the job, also when starting to slowly move as when backing out of a parking space. Once moving, then everything is ok. It's kind of like it's locked, then releases.
The truck had big tires but came with the originals, which I put back on. (low miles). Something ain't right here - compared to my F-150. I think you should be able to grind the tires back and forth all you want with no complaints.
This truck has 4" Skyjacker lifts.
 
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Old Jun 9, 2007 | 07:00 PM
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Old fluid can cause less force, but the bigger the tires, more work most be done.
 
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Old Jun 9, 2007 | 08:00 PM
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Yeah, that's why I put the originals back on. Same problem.
I'll check the fluid and go from there...
 
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Old Jun 11, 2007 | 02:29 PM
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The problem happens if I am not moving with my foot on the brake, as soon as I let of the brake it is esy to turn, still without any forward or backward motion. Is this normal?
 
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Old Jun 11, 2007 | 02:37 PM
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Do you guys have diesel engines? If so the power steering pump supplies the hydraulic power for both the steering and braking systems. When trying to do both it supplys the braking system with more power, making it harder to turn.
 
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Old Jun 11, 2007 | 03:36 PM
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Originally Posted by Beerstalker
Do you guys have diesel engines? If so the power steering pump supplies the hydraulic power for both the steering and braking systems. When trying to do both it supplys the braking system with more power, making it harder to turn.
Exactly. Check your power steering pump, PS fluid and your serpentine belt.
 
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Old Jun 11, 2007 | 05:12 PM
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Originally Posted by toa5150medic
The problem happens if I am not moving with my foot on the brake, as soon as I let of the brake it is esy to turn, still without any forward or backward motion. Is this normal?
Perfectly, your asking your tires allow movement when thier job is traction because nothing else can move.
 
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Old Jun 11, 2007 | 08:05 PM
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Yes, 6.0 diesel. I think you guys got it right. There is essentially no problem. I just have to modify my driving habits. Just wanted to nip a potential problem in the bud.
Thanks, and I can't tell you how much I appreciate the expert advice and tips on this forum.
 
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Old Aug 25, 2007 | 01:44 AM
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i thought the same thing but it has changed for me i cant get even brakes at slow idle i think i have a big problem can yall help me i have a 2006 250 6.0 PSD
 
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