steering binding

[dmjarosz]

So after biting the bullet and replacing the ride height sensor, I now have a binding/popping sound coming from some where in the steering system. I sprayed the steering linkage with PB blaster and no change. I did a little diagnostics yesterday and narrowed it down to the rack itself or somewhere inside the steering column.

Its a wierd feeling. Theres not actually any play or dead spots in the steering, its just jumpy like the power assist is cutting in and out. Theres also a popping/clicking sound associated with the binding that I can feel in the steering wheel. Binding seems to happen at +/- 90 degrees of wheel rotation. No fluid leaks present and the fluid looks ok, was flushed out last summer. Tie rods and ball joints feel tight and the car doesnt track any differently.

So while looking online for a replacement rack, I see that the aftermarket companies are less than half the price of the Motorcraft rack. Am I ok to go with A-1 Cardone or similar? And why does aftermarket call it a "rack and pinion assembly" and Motorcraft calls it a "steering gear" Is there some difference between the two that explains the massive price difference?

And last but not least, this doesnt seem to be a big problem with the Rauder seeing as how I couldnt find much info on this site regarding power steering. Has anyone else had this issue and is the car still safe to drive short distances? I live real close to work and its my daily driver.

[03blkmarauder]

Might wanna take a look at the lower steering shaft that goes to the steering gear. I've seen those u-joints bind up from time to time.

[yjmud]

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^+1^^^^^^^^^^^^ ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

[dmjarosz]

Good call, I'll check that. Any good tips on how to disconnect and/or remove it for inspection? The only good way I saw was unbolt the plate with the rubber damper under the steering column to create some clearence.

[blackhueys]

run away from a1 as fast as you can!! I went through 2 racks in under 2 years the last one I got was screwed up as well the threaded hole that holds the line in was not full of threads thankfully I could helicoil it and it worked but if this one goes out f the warranty I am going to the dealer for a new one!

[dmjarosz]

Might wanna take a look at the lower steering shaft that goes to the steering gear. I've seen those u-joints bind up from time to time.


Bingo! I took it apart yesterday and the middle u-joint (theres 3 of them) is siezed. I soaked it with PB blaster and its probably 75% better. This morning I drive the car and its back to where it was. My guess is the heat from the exhaust manifold dried out all the oil and the u-joint re-siezed up.

I just ordered the lower steering shaft from Tasca. Wow does Ford like to screw people on the parts that tend to go bad!!