Dead spots in steering...

[LEB Ben]

Focusing on the Bronco. Last night I noticed dead spots in the steering while driving around. Seeing as time is always short to actually investigate, I'm hoping to e-troubleshoot the most likely problem. Keep in mind I just did the ball joints a month or so ago, and the rig has maybe 10 miles worth of test driving since then. Is there anything in particular that comes to mind that I may not have replaced correctly and is now binding (even though I don't recall these issues while test driving)??? So as stated, at speed, there are some serious dead spots while steering, almost to the point of feeling like manual steering. While backing out of the driveway or turning in to a parking spot, it feels almost all manual. The pump reservoir is good on fluid and I don't see any leaking hoses. My best assessment is that the pump is going out. Any potential in the steering box going out??? Concur, disagree and/or other suggestions???

 

[m78]

Did you check to see if the belt is tight?

 

[LEB Ben]

Yessir, she's where she needs to be.

 

[Mil1ion]

Put it up on stands... engine running and go lock to lock with the S/W about 7-10 times.
while Listening for hydraulic flat spots.

Then drop it back down to the ground and recheck

 

[LEB Ben]

Are you thinking air in the system, Dennis?

 

[Mil1ion]

No,I'm thinking dirt .