Hard steering

Hi,

If you are seeing bubbles in the fluid, that indicates air is in it. Has any work recently been done to the system? Have you checked for leaks?

Here is a verification/leak test procedure. See if you find any of the things mentioned. The pics below correlate with the directions.

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2001 Ford Truck Windstar V6-3.8L VIN 4
Inspection and Verification
Vehicle Steering and Suspension Steering Testing and Inspection Initial Inspection and Diagnostic Overview Inspection and Verification With Conventional Suspension Inspection and Verification
INSPECTION AND VERIFICATION
Inspection and Verification

CAUTION: Do not hold the steering wheel at the stops for an extended amount of time. Damage to the power steering pump will result.

NOTE: Make the following preliminary checks before repairing the steering system:

1. Verify the customer concern by operating the steering system.
2. Inspect the tires
- Check the tire pressure; refer to the Vehicle Certification (VC) label.
- Verify that all tires are sized to specification.
- Check the tires for damage or uneven wear.
3. Belt and Tensioner Check
4. Fluid Level Check
- Verify that the power steering fluid level is within the appropriate hot or cold range on the dipstick. Add Motorcraft MERCON Multipurpose ATF XT-2-QDX or MERCON equivalent.
5. Air Bleeding
- Verify that there is no air in the power steering system. Run the engine until it reaches normal operating temperature. Turn the steering wheel to the left and right several times without hitting the stops. If any air bubbles are present, refer to Purging-CII Power Steering Pump or Purging-CIII Power Steering Pump.

External Leak Check-Typical Power Rack-and-Pinion Steering Gear

Pic 1

External Leak Check - Typical Power Rack-and-Pinion Steering Gear

6. External Leak Check
- With the ignition switch at CIII, wipe off the power steering pump, power steering hose assembly, power steering return hoses, power steering fluid cooler, and steering gear.
- With the engine running, turn the steering wheel from stop to stop several limes. Do not hold steering wheel at stops. Check for leaks. Repair as necessary if leaks are observed.
7. Turning Effort Check

pic 2

8. Visually inspect for obvious signs of mechanical damage
9. If an obvious cause for an observed or reported malfunction is found, correct the cause (if possible) before proceeding to the next step.
10. If the fault is not visually evident, determine the symptom and proceed to the following symptom chart. See: Steering > Symptom Related Diagnostic Procedures > With Conventional Suspension

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Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care and God Bless,

Joe