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Coupe
02-20-2011, 01:04 PM
Since a few days, my steering feels strange. sometimes it is very hard to correction the toe (during drive), sometimes it is very easy! maybe the VAPS (Variable Assist Power Steering Module)???
fastblackmerc
02-20-2011, 01:08 PM
Could be. Make sure the connection is clean and tight.

Might want to change the P/S fluid also.
Coupe
02-20-2011, 01:45 PM
but, i found out, that the module is inside the cabin, behind theglove compartment?!?!?
is this right? were is the swich for the VAPS at the steering? may the swich is defective!?
fastblackmerc
02-20-2011, 03:06 PM
but, i found out, that the module is inside the cabin, behind theglove compartment?!?!?
is this right? were is the swich for the VAPS at the steering? may the swich is defective!?

The VAPS gets it's info from the PCM.

There is a solenoid on the drivers side of the rack & pinion. Check that connector.

According to the Shop Manual:

Poor Returnability / Sticky Steering can be
1 - Binding lower steering column shaft U-joints
2- Loose, worn or damaged front wheel spindle tie-rod
3 - Loose, worn or damaged tie-rod ends
4 - Front suspension components
5 - Binding steering column bearing(s)
Mr. Man
02-20-2011, 03:28 PM
Are your tires at the proper air pressure?
tbone
02-20-2011, 03:31 PM
Since a few days, my steering feels strange. sometimes it is very hard to correction the toe (during drive), sometimes it is very easy! maybe the VAPS (Variable Assist Power Steering Module)???


Post some pics of your Marauder with a castle or something like that in the background.
Coupe
02-20-2011, 08:52 PM
@fastblackmerc (http://www.mercurymarauder.net/forums/member.php?u=1670): thank you, thatīs what iīll test today
@Mr. Man (http://www.mercurymarauder.net/forums/member.php?u=10624): yes, it is
@tbone (http://www.mercurymarauder.net/forums/member.php?u=11496): for what?
freakstatus
02-20-2011, 09:42 PM
I had a seized up steering shaft. Same symptoms.
Coupe
02-21-2011, 08:55 PM
but how can it be, that the most time everything seems okay? itīs only sporadic, that feels hard
Coupe
02-22-2011, 01:29 PM
seems to be an electrical problem:
today, the steering was continual heavy to handle. after a engine stop and restart, everything was okay!!!!
fastblackmerc
02-22-2011, 02:04 PM
seems to be an electrical problem:
today, the steering was continual heavy to handle. after a engine stop and restart, everything was okay!!!!

Check that solenoid on the steering rack.

Check the wires that go to it, trace them as far as you can.m make sure they aren't burned, broken etc.

Check the bundle of wires at the back of the drivers side cam cover. That big bundle there may be rubbing on one of the screws for the cowl cover.
fesifisky
02-22-2011, 04:34 PM
In both of my MMs, if it wasn't tires causing intermittent hard-feel steering, it was the lower steering shaft. Just put a new one in mine this past friday. If the fluid is ok and the rack is ok, try spraying some wd40 on the joints of the steering shaft, if that makes it easier to turn, that's prolly the culprit.
Coupe
03-01-2011, 02:06 PM
it seems to be a miracle!!! after a very hard ride yesterday from work, i try WD40 as last trial and, oh what a wonder, the handling is okay again. unbelievable!!! thank you all, very a awesome forum!!!!!
fastblackmerc
03-01-2011, 02:47 PM
it seems to be a miracle!!! after a very hard ride yesterday from work, i try WD40 as last trial and, oh what a wonder, the handling is okay again. unbelievable!!! thank you all, very a awesome forum!!!!!

I'd keep an eye on those u-joints. You may end up replacing them.
Coupe
03-01-2011, 02:49 PM
what are the u jonints? do u have a pic?
fastblackmerc
03-01-2011, 02:51 PM
what are the u jonints? do u have a pic?

They are the joints you WD-40ied.
Coupe
03-01-2011, 02:53 PM
up or down?
fastblackmerc
03-01-2011, 02:57 PM
up or down?

All of them.

My point is if they are binding up you may need to eventually replace them.
MM2004
03-01-2011, 02:59 PM
All of them.

My point is if they are binding up you may need to eventually replace them.

Correct.

WD-40 is a no-go if the U-Joints are binding or worn out.

Replacement would be the best choice.

Mike.
fastblackmerc
03-01-2011, 03:18 PM
Correct.

WD-40 is a no-go if the U-Joints are binding or worn out.

Replacement would be the safest choice.

Mike.

Fixed it for you!
fesifisky
03-01-2011, 09:51 PM
Reason I mentioned the wd40 is that once it seemed to temporarily aleviate the hard-steer, it confirmed it was the lower steering shaft in my case. Oddly, it was in 2 MMs. Ford lists the new one at $200 currently unless you know someone at a shop.
Coupe
03-02-2011, 12:52 PM
can it be true, that i cantīt replace only the ball joint? if i see it right, i have to replace the whole control arm!