Explorer 4.0L Power steering issue

[meow700]

I have a 95 eddie with the 4.0L with 166k. The power steering just quits at lower rpms, or kind of hits and misses(which makes it difficult when your strong arming it and it decides to work, then you try not to die). I just replaced the power steering pump but it did not help. I am wondering if maybe the rack is bad, but want to know if there is anything else i can try first? Thanks in advance!

[meow700]

also the steering doesnt return to the center after a turn in seems to hit a dead spot and you have to force it over that dead spot....does this approximately a 45 degree turn of the steering wheel both left and right

[shorod]

Watch your engine speed, does it drop when you're trying to steer the truck? If so, you might have an Idle Air Control (IAC) that is failing. Under varying loads on the engine, the IAC should open a variable amount to keep the engine speed relatively constant. If the engine speed drops when trying to steer the wheel, the pump may not be providing as much power assist.

-Rod

[meow700]

Yeah the engine speed remains constant and it even does it when i goose it around a corner the most annoying part is it doesnt return to center either...

[shorod]

Since the engine speed remains constant, you might want to try bleeding the system again. The process has been posted before, so try searching the forum.

-Rod