Hard steering....
 

Hey all,
I have a 2004 f-150 with the triton motor. I have a 7-1/2' snowplow on the truck.
The truck is starting to steer harder than normal..and even more noticeable as the weather gets colder. I've checked the tire pressures, power steering fluid level and even sprayed the universal knuckle under the hood ( at the end of the steering column). I sprayed it several times with WD-40.

Am I missing anything?? It even steered harder before the plow was hooked up! I've had other trucks with plows on them and didn't have this problem.

Any ideas??

Thanks, Jake T.

I know it is difficult to get the front wheels up off the ground with a plow attached, but is the steering much easier and are any of the ball joints binding? The PS pump may be on the way out.

Any audible change in the pump? or any 'chatter' or pulsing feel as the steering is rotated on over? WD40 was designed as a (W)ater (D)isplacement) and isn't a lasting lube, in fact, it will/can wash out excisting lubes that aren't seal contained.. Miles on the truck, weight of the plow? Fluid color?

Good suggestion. Hadn't thought of trying that.

The fluid color is normal. No pump noises or chattering etc. The plow weigh about 500 pounds. Had it on the truck for a few seasons. This is the first year I notice the harder steering.