Power Steering

[Art Garcia]

lately i have noticed my steering wheel become very hard

to steer when maneuvering into parking spots. it happens

randomly and not quite often. i really noticed it when i was

towing a trailer with a jacuzzi that i had just bought the other

day. at very low speed, probably 5 mph or below, the steering

wheel becomes very stiff. the power steering fluid seems to be

at the adequate amount, no major leak.



has anyone experience this or have had this issue happen before?

 

[Todd Z]

How old is your Serp belt and or tensioner ????



Todd Z

 

[Art Garcia]

id have to say it has not been replaced.

all factory

 

[Todd Z]

I would install a new belt and tensioner..... get a get a ko60860 belt... OEM is k060865... IT is 1/2 inch shorter and the new tensioner and it should make a world of a difference..



IF not the pump is getting weak, but i almost bet the belt is slipping.



Todd Z

 

[Kevin Palmer]

Chances are replacing the belt will solve it.



That said, there was a TSB on this issue but mostly pertained to colder environments.

Basically, the pump is not able to pump the pressure needed to ensure smooth steering at slow (parking lot) speeds.



Ford replaced the Trac pump with the V8 version of the Explorer to resolve the issue.



Had mine replaced for free, no longer had any issues..