2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Power steering feels weak

[SRay]

Hello, I got what seems like a weak steering system in my 1997 2500 4x4 ctd. Can't turn the steering wheel unless truck is moving. Often times this is very annoying when I'm working with trailers, farm equipment etc (on pavement most times). I do have large 315/75/16 Toyo m/t tires on but driving my friends dodges with same size tires as well, they seem to work fine. I also have smaller sized winter tires on other rims (285/75/16) as well but it was no better.



In the winter, There's a groaning sound until I think everything warms up. The fluid has been changed last year but doesn't help. Using ATF+4.



I do have a spare steering box and pump in my parts dually. As that truck has 400,000 kms, I'm not sure there's much life left in them either.



My 1997 has 450,000kms on odo.



Any suggestions would be appreciated



Shawn

 

[SRay]

And does anyone have an opinion about the borgeson steering box whether it's better or not than factory? If I can get a stronger steering box or maybe my pump is not pushing enough pressure.



Thanks



Shawn

 

[GAmes]

ATF is not the right fluid for a '97, and very well could be eating up your seals and hoses. You can read over this post https://www.turbodieselregister.com...7-possible-low-power-steering-assist-fix.html. A good flush with power steering fluid (Redline makes a good synthetic) may be all you need. Check the hoses to the brakes and see if they are seeping, I've had to replace mine from age.

 

[gpvideen]

Have you had the alinment checked? Out of adjustment camber will make it steer hard.

 

[Lumpy]

Sounds like a pump failure to me.

 

[SRay]

Gpvideen: yup, alignment is good. Also all 4 tires wearing nicely.



Lumpy: I'm assuming the pump may be on it's last legs and I'm gonna check the screen first.



Shawn

 

[CCahill]

I replaced my worn out steering box with the Borgeson box about 4 months ago...

The good : steers like a sports car... I don't know what DC was thinking when they put that stock box in the LB trucks.



The bad:the pitman shaft where it comes out of the box already has some slop in in... you can move the steering wheel and see the movement on the shaft where it exits the box...



No I don't have a DSS or other stabilizer... my OG box lasted 11 years without it, plus I have stock size tires... . I'd like to think with current technology that it would last as long as my OG box did...