2000 Ford Ranger power steering Issue

Hello - I would first check my belt. Do you have a serpentine belt??? I show you do. From what the manual says your belt tensioner has a wear indicator on it..........I have a pic of all the other engines other than the 2.5. I have attached them to maybe give you an idea of what to look for.

But I would first check that. It is possible that under load the belt is being stretched and stays tight. But when you let off the gas it is loose and the tensioner isn't putting enough pressure on it to provide you with power steering. Also look at all your pulley wheels and make sure they are okay and working freely. How does the belt look and have you ever changed it? BELT TENSION On vehicles with serpentine belts, belt tension is adjusted automatically. Some automatic belt tensioners have belt wear indicator marks located on top of tensioner housing. If tension indicator mark is not between wear indicator marks, belt is worn or incorrect belt is installed. Replace belt, if necessary

Hello –

Oh….you may be able to open the hood…..while the engine is idling look how the belt is traveling. Race the engine and see how the belt does……does it stay tight or look like it wants to flop off.

The wear indicator mark on the tension pulley was right in the middle. I did put on a new goodyear gator belt . Hopefully that will cure the intermittent problem i had.
Thank You
Wheelchairdude49

Hello –

You still might consider changing the tension pulley. Only because if it was in the middle with a older weaker belt……a newer stronger belt may pull it to the bad and be too much strength on the spring in the pulley. Just a thought.

I would call it more…..preventative maintenance….

Have a great day and a safe weekend.

Hello - Hey one other thing - Also, it looks like you may have some recalls on your vehicle. The dealer may fix these for free. Please contact the dealer service department, give them the VIN number of your car and have them check on these to see if they apply to you.