why does it seem like all the 2nd gen. trucks I drive are really hard to steer??? the 3rd. gen.'s seem like you can turn the wheel with one finger, but most 2nd. gen.'s seem like you nearly have to be moving before they'll turn with ease???? what gives???? is there anything I can do to fix this or at least help it some??? thanks, Dusty

 

I noticed that my truck was hard to steer at a stand still...I just thought my pump was going bad or something...I didnt know it was a common thing.

 

probably just hyduralics of the system. my 95 is the same. My dad old 67 F100 Ranger could beer turned with the pinkey eaisly, kinda nice lazy mans driving.

 

I would change the power steering fluid and use a good grade or a synthetic fluid. That would help. But if you still are having problems it might be the power steering pump is going bad. When was the last time you changed you fluid???

 

I personally like it alittle harder to steer.

My brother has a 3rd gen and it seems like ever time you touch the wheel on his truck it jerks around on the highway.

If I wanted it to steer like a civic I would have bought Honda.

 

With my truck, air pressure in the front tires has the greatest effect on how hard the steering is. Over the years, I've found that running the air pressure shown on the door, is the best for tire wear at both ends.

If you want it to steer easy just raise the tire pressure up front. Tire wear will increase. I use to run 65-70 up front which makes the steering feel real light.

Dave

 

HERE'S a little trick I did to my power steering pump.
You don't have to drill the threaded fitting out to 5/32, it's already that size.
Also, the end cap has a filtering screen on it. Make sure it's clean.
37" tires, in gear, (auto), stopped, can turn wheel with a finger, (or two).
Doesn't cost anything but some time to try it out.

Brad

 

as far as I know the power steering fluid has never been changed, I may try that after x-mas, if that doesn't work might try working on the pump a bit??? thanks for the replies, Dusty

 

There is a filter screen on the back side of the pump too... I was informed a few post again about... So hopefully he will chime in.

Basically it looks like a plug on the back of the pump and when you un-screw it it there is a screen inside too...

 

I like the harder steering on the truck,If i jump in my moms surburban you are always working at keeping it center if you just move it a little bit it wants to go off the road.We also think the pitman arm is going in the Burb',so that6 could be the problem of the drifting.But i like the dodge you dont need to worry if you move the wheel a little bit and going off the edge of the road.

 

Aren't our trucks considered to be "power assist" instead of "power steering"? Or is that just some crap I heard that isn't true or doesn't mean anything? I know you guys will know.