My sweet, sweet Cherokee is starting to get a wee but tight in the steering. I'm guessing the power steering pump is misbehaving and it would be nonsense to go to mechanic. The fluid is full. Must be the most likely case.
anyone with real knowledge care to chime in? Thank you

 

Done a pressure test?

 

Mileage? Any service ever done on the PS pump?

Is it tight when your at a stand still or while moving?

your fluid is full... but what is the condition of the fluid?

A quick flush might be a good place to start if you are un-able to test your PS pump pressure

Jack the wheels up off the ground and turn from lock to lock to see if there is any binding going on...

Few good hints to start

 

You can loosen up the steering by adjusting the Allen head nut/screw thing on the top of the steering box.

 

-250xxx plus a few.
-Ive had it for a year and a half or so and never done anything to the PS pump
-Im not sure as to the condition of the fluid.
- It tends to be tighter than normal every once in a while both at a stand still and while driving. I dont think it is noticable other than to me who drives her each day

Im gonna start with a PS fluid flush. Ive never done one before and it will be a good learning experience. I looked up how to vids on you tube (so thankful for this forum and you tube) and I will get it done soon. Any for warnings or tips and tricks? its a 93 4 cyl beauty.

 

I'm no great source here, but I know a bit. A steering box overly tightened might bind. (as mentioned). I doubt that's your issue. Btw, it would bind more forward, and less while turned.

The steering will feel stiff if the pump ain't pumping. Usually I'll hear noise from the pump its'-self, (fluid low), the belt squealing. I'm not fimiliar with resistance on the wheel, and no noise. Juess I'd check the fluid and belt tension anyway though.

 

Grease up all those neglected steering parts.. ball joints, tie rod ends etc. My old '93 felt like no power steering (almost). I greased 'er up and was genuinely surprised how ez it steered.

 

Thanks all... what kind of grease should I use? the stuff the comes in the same tubes caulk comes in?

 

Yes. I'm not familiar with the specs or different types. Grease B Grease. (there is "Marine", for boat trailers), is all I know.

 

Don't do that, it's not a good idea.