Front Axle binding on turns starting out

[Billkid67]

I have noticed a front axle binding(in 2 wheel drive) almost like the 4wd is locked in when turning at low speed. The steering wheel will have some backlash or binding when wheels are
turned. Anyone experience this problem and what is needed to fix it? The truck operates ok while driving straight and the tires are new.

 

[Bob4x4]

The most likely cause would be worn/binding front axle u-joints.To verify this you can lift the front wheels off the ground,turn the wheels to full lock and rotate the tire,at this point as it rotates it will try to turn the wheels as the joint rotates through the binding condition

 

[DFrank]

I had same issue with my 03. I had one U joint replaced and the issue went away. It sometimes now makes a loud clunk when starting off at a full steer, actually backing in to park.

I suspect the other one is going, but wonder if anyone haas another theory.

 

[Killer223]

when mine did this it was the axle u-joints. new ones from napa and i'm good to go now.

 

[Motorhead]

One tell tale sign of a U joint failing is seeing fine red rust around the failing joint and cups.

 

[Prairie Dog]

I had same issue with my 03. I had one U joint replaced and the issue went away. It sometimes now makes a loud clunk when starting off at a full steer, actually backing in to park.

I suspect the other one is going, but wonder if anyone haas another theory.

The drivers side of my 03 went and I put off doing the other side because it was "fine".
3 weeks later the other side started binding.
As Bob pointed out, there's an easy test. Mine was so bad I could only turn it 1/2 a revolution before it stuck solid so this test makes it very clear when the joint is bad..