Is marauder steering different than crown vic / grand marquis / town car?

[m00bara]

Hello,
I recently bought a 2003 mercury marauder and the steering seems pretty stiff. I also have a Lincoln Town Car (and I had a Crown Vic) and steering is way lighter in those cars.
Should the Marauder steering be stiffer, or is it something wrong with the one I bought?

[burt ragio]

The steering linkage upper and lower can bind over time.when I replaced mine I also changed out the steering fluid.

[Mr. Man]

The steering ratio for the Marauder is different than the CV, GM etc. Can't remember by how much, but a quick Google search can answer it if you're interested. Check the linkage to make sure there isn't something binding it up. I don't think the rack is available any longer, but I seem to remember people taking it apart and replacing the seals. I'm not sure if this is an easy job or a PITA. Also, as a side make sure the tires are at proper pressure as low inflation can mimic your symptoms. JM2C

[m00bara]

The previous owner drove it with overfilled power steering fluid, I corrected the level but it didn't help.

There are some points that require more force to rotate the steering wheel and it's not symmetrical - for example a quick sharp right turn is stiffer in some points, the left sharp turn behaves differently: is in general more stabilized.

I think my steering shaft might be a little bit rusty - I sprayed some WD-40 and PB Blaster on it a few times and it seemed to improve a little bit but it is still somewhat stiff, not comfortable to drive.
Is the Dorman steering shaft replacement good (Dorman 425-362 and Dorman 425-360)?

[burt ragio]

If Motorcraft is not available Dorman will be fine. Get the lower and the intermediate shafts. Easy pese fix. When doing the repair disconnect the battery and clock the steering wheel.

[fastblackmerc]

If Motorcraft is not available Dorman will be fine. Get the lower and the intermediate shafts. Easy pese fix. When doing the repair disconnect the battery and clock the steering wheel.

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