Hard to steer at idle *SOLUTION*

[merc123]

I saw quite a few threads stating that some folks can turn their steering with a finger and others can't at idle, sitting still. I was one that could not. When the original owner took the truck in for this issue Ford stated it was normal on SD trucks and diesels.

I just put on a new Red-head steering box and new power steering pump and with my 33's I can turn it from lock to lock with one finger at idle and without rolling. Before I had to either roll a little or neutral/idle up to make it turn in tight spaces. It still works even with the brake pushed in.

I'm completely convinced it was the pump and not the box, but for those that have issues I'd recommend getting a $50 pump fom Advance Auto and throw it in.

[TXsmoker]

Thanks for the good info...def gonna pick one up this weekend!!!

[psd_va]

Yea i was pretty sure it is the pump but ive been lazy and havent done it yet i dont drive mine that much but i think ill be doing it very soon

[symbols]

Thanks for sharing. I have the same problem

[jason51p]

same problem with 35's. thanks

[merc123]

I've got a how-to on here also. It's kind of rough and crude as the socket/wrench sizes may not be exact but the process is the same.

Some say hour... I say 3+ hour job. Most annoying thing is the truck is so high I had to use a box to stand on. Made it easier.

[arcticcat01]

same problem wih mine..

[icysmooth]

Same with mine,steering's tight at stand still,but brakes work with no effort to stop on a dime,but hey,I'll give the pump a try myself!
Thanks for the info!
Can you loan me your box when everyone else is done?

[blue72]

How did you know which steering box to buy. Everywhere I look they offer two different ones? Thanks.

[merc123]

Here's a how-to that tells you how to determine which box.

Red Head Steering gear box installed - Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums

You basically count the teeth on the box between the alignment gaps. Mine was 9 so I have a 36 box...the most expensive.