I hopped in my 97 XLT w/ 120k miles the other day to move it. It was sitting on a grass surface. When I turned the steering wheel, it had more resistance than usual, and as I turned the wheel, I would encounter some resistance, and then it would be overcome, and then I would encounter it again. It does not feel like anything is binding (and I have recently replaced all the ball joints and outer tie rod ends). When driving down the road and turning, at any speed, the wheel will not return to center. I did check the power steering fluid and the level was normal.
My first thought is that the power rack had gone. I was getting some very faint noise last Spring, but did not have any turning problems with the noise.
Before I just went out and bought a new rack, I thought I would see if anyone else has had similar experience or some thoughts.
From the looks of the manual, it is not a hugely difficult job. Anyone who has done this is welcome to share their experience.
Thanks,
Dave