I have an 01 3500 2wd. I replaced the steering box and pump and it is much stiffer than the old one. I thought maybe it needed to break in but it's still really stiff, at all rpm's and speeds.

 

Sounds like you have some air in there.....the hydro boost doesn't like that.

 

What did you use for fluid? PS or ATF? And to get the air out of the system you jack up the truck axle so tires are off the ground. Start the engine, turn the wheel lock to lock about 5 - 10 times without touching the brakes. Turn off the engine and check fluid. If its low then add. If its aerated then let the truck sit for about an hour with the cap loose. Then tighten the cap and start the engine and repeat. After the second time the air should be out.

 

Used ps fluid. Bled all air before starting. Truck has about 150 miles on it since the change, still stiff as a bear. Wondering if the reman shop over adjusted it during rebuild or if there could be an issue with the reman pump.

 

That would be my guess......Ben

 

Personally, I would not touch the preload on the gear box. It's either aur bound, or the ps pump isn't developing enough pressure.