steering issues
 

01 f250 318k. Started out steering was a little loose but not terrible. Then the power steering pump started to growl so i replaced it that lasted about a month then it started growling again. Ball joints are mew and all steering linkage is new. When i turn a corned i can let go of the wheel and it stays turned it will not return to center on it own and it steers hard. My steering box is leaking out the top plate where the adjuster is but its not enough to drip. Is my steering box bad? Or is something else wrong.

you have to inspect the ball joints. Something is binding in the steering system. Have a buddy turn the wheel and see where it may be binding up.

Back off on the adjustment screw on the steering box a little.

I will try to back the adjusting screw off and see what that does. I noticed yesterday that when the system is cold its not as bad and gets worse the longer i drive it.

Heat and expansion... sounds like the adjustment might just be the ticket for you.

When i had the drag link off a few weeks ago and replaced it the wheels turned free not hooked to the steering box. I raised the front of the truck and i cannot turn the wheels by hand from the tire. Even in the air its tight with the truck running turning the wheel. If i back the adjuster out wont that put more play in the steering wheel?

Yes, it will give you more play, but you're supposed to have some anyway -- when you turn the wheel and let it go, it is supposed to return back a little bit. Otherwise, your pressure on the gears is too tight and will result in premature wear.

It could also be that your box is worn enough, though, to where it is time for a new one. I'm just suggesting that you try the "free" repair effort first, and if it does not create excess slop in the steering, it might just be all you need to do for now (which would give you a chance to set aside those pennies for a box replacement at a later date).