So all of the sudden when I turn the wheels sharp in either directions, like when when turning onto a highway from a dirt road or making a right turn from a light, the steering wheel does not want to return to center. I actually have to counter steer back to straight. When I do this, I hear a little noise that I would describe as a fast electrical solonoid motor or just maybe a squeal. It doesn't sound like the power steering is low. I checked it and it looks normal. Steering is normal at all speeds on and off the highway. I did mention to my wife while we were crawling up a fairly rocky forest service road that it seemed as if I need a new stabilizer due to the fact that I had to steer the truck so much. usually i can let the wheel coast through my hands after negotiating rocks and other off road things. Is this the end of my pump, my box or my stabilizer??

 

Have you ever changed the fluid?

 

You mean it may not last longer than 180,000 miles? I'm not the original owner and no, I have not changed it.
Come to think of it, I don't believe i have ever changed PS fluid in anything..

 

Lots of reading if you do a search. Remember that the PS also powers the brakes, so it does double duty.

 

I searched around a bit and it looks like I'm going to try the ol' pump out as much as possible and refill routine..

 

I had the same problem, after trying to climb a snow pile, when turning right, I had to "crank" the wheel back to go strait down the road. It turned out to be the stabilizer.

 

Stabilizer was replaced. All is well now. Now for the fluid... I'll wait 'till it's cooler outside...

 

Glad you got that fixed. Wanted to comment that I hit a big ole tire gator once, got off the interstate and steering was not good. Bent the crap out of the stabilizer. Luckily there was a auto parts store really close and put a new one on in the parking lot.