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Steering problems

Old Aug 5, 2008 | 12:41 PM
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Steering problems

My 2002 FWD steers like a covered wagon. No lift kit, basically stock. Has there been any mods (haven't seen any) or any suggestions? I use it around town, never needed it before, but it is getting to be a real pain.
 
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Old Aug 5, 2008 | 01:26 PM
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Welcome to FTE!

Might just need a steering box adjustment, see this thread:
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/6...-steering.html

If that don't work, might be a ball joint. Use the search to get further detail.
 
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Old Aug 5, 2008 | 01:48 PM
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Mine is more about hard steering and huge turning radius. Not loose steering. It handles fine, just really hard to turn when moving from dead stop and doesn't turn sharply. Takes two lanes of traffic and some extra to turn.
 
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Old Aug 5, 2008 | 01:51 PM
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Power steering is run off of the break system. Check your break fluid level.
 
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Old Aug 5, 2008 | 05:54 PM
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[QUOTE][/Power steering is run off of the break system. Check your break fluid level. QUOTE]
explain?power steering is powered by the power steering pump and brake boost is also powered by the power steering pump,there is no brake fluid in the power steering system only in the brake system which will affect pedal height not steering
 
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Old Aug 5, 2008 | 07:04 PM
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Originally Posted by tiger94gop
Mine is more about hard steering and huge turning radius. Not loose steering. It handles fine, just really hard to turn when moving from dead stop and doesn't turn sharply. Takes two lanes of traffic and some extra to turn.
You always need two + lanes to make a u turn, I don't think that is going to get any better.

Does it groan at low speeds like pulling into a parking stall? Check PS fluid or maybe it needs a flush.

Mine is a bit difficult too it's related to moving slow having foot on the brake, which is hydro boost related, I think it is sort of a parasitic loss. Make a really slow turn with foot on brake and pump the brakes does it free the steering up a little?
 
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Old Aug 5, 2008 | 10:33 PM
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Wider tires make it hard to steer. I replaced my p/s pump and its all back to normal, just wanders around the road like a drunken sailor haha. Ford only p/s pump. None others have worked for me
 
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Old Aug 5, 2008 | 11:07 PM
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Just a thought. Are your front hubs working properly?
 
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Old Aug 6, 2008 | 07:21 AM
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[quote=84deisel;6420016]
[/Power steering is run off of the break system. Check your break fluid level. QUOTE]
explain?power steering is powered by the power steering pump and brake boost is also powered by the power steering pump,there is no brake fluid in the power steering system only in the brake system which will affect pedal height not steering
Sorry...haist makes waist and I ended up writing it backwards. You are correct, check the PS fluid level, not break.

There have been folks on the forum who have seen improved performance by replacing their PS fluid with synthetic ATF.
 
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Old Aug 6, 2008 | 12:03 PM
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It always did steer this way, it is even worse when 4wd locked in. I just ridden in several 03's and up and they steer a hell of a lot better. I know Ford changed the front ends, just thought some one knew of a basic mod to get it to turn better.
 
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