'96 Ford Explorer Power Steering Issue?

[vhariable]

I have a '96 Ford Explorer V6 4x4. I left it parked most of the winter and now it feels like it doesn't have power steering. The power steering fluid is full, but it is very hard to turn the wheel. Also, the last time that I drove it I had to engage 4x4 to move it into my driveway. I engaged 2 wheel drive after it was in place. I'm not sure if that is related to this issue or I need a new power steering pump?

Thank you,

Todd

 

[hoss_hanna]

try a fluid change before u change the pump, junk could have settled while the trk was parked for an extended period, if that dont fix it u can try a thicker fluid (i use atf in alot of older power steering units) of course while u are getting ready to change the fluids check for blockages in the lines or crimps. if all that fails then i would look at a pump. question, does the 96 have any electric controls? i cant remember offhand... if it does check the fuses.

 

[vhariable]

I really appreciate your great advise about starting simple! I'm not sure about any electric controls. I tried the simple test of using a suction device to suck out all of the fluid I could from the reservoir. The fluid was purplish/black. I was able to get out a good cup+. I then put in new PS fluid and then while the truck was running turned the wheel left/right and could feel it loosening up as I did this. The power steering is very loud, but I vaguely remember this from before. I wonder if doing a complete flush and then adding new fluid would improve the sound or if that is just typical?

This seems to have "fixed" the obvious problem I was having, but I wonder if it would be worth the time to do a complete flush?

 

[Electrohacker]

try a fluid change before u change the pump, junk could have settled while the trk was parked for an extended period, if that dont fix it u can try a thicker fluid (i use atf in alot of older power steering units) of course while u are getting ready to change the fluids check for blockages in the lines or crimps. if all that fails then i would look at a pump. question, does the 96 have any electric controls? i cant remember offhand... if it does check the fuses.

actually I think ford used ATF in there stock... I myself need to reflush and probably switch to a trans fluid as I get bad leaks and the lucas fluid is too think come winter