Increase steering effort

[Dan R]

I find the steering over assisted on my 1993 Ranger.
How can I increase the steering effort?
An underdrive pulley on the steering pump might work. Does such a thing exist?
Could I take a smaller pulley from a different pump?
Thanks,
Dan

 

[Centaurious]

I don't know if the steering box has an orifice that is replaceable but you might check with a 4-wheel drive shop or an alignment shop.

Just an idea, Good Luck

 

[RangerX]

I have a couple questions, to maybe help us think.
How's your alignment?
2wd or 4wd?
What size tire, and what psi?

 

[2stroke]

over assisted? You might be best off finding an old manual steering box and adapting that. I hear it gives you better feel of the road, if you don't mind hard steering while stopped.

 

[Dan R]

Thanks for the replies.
I have a stock 2WD setup. No modifications.
I have not found a smaller pulley but a flow control valve for the pump looks promising.
I can find valves for GM Type II pumps for use with Ford racks. None for Ford pumps.
The parts "looks" like it would fit. Any suggestions?
There is the Heidt's variable control unit which would need to be plumbed in.
One site suggested that I should be controlling the flow not the pressure.
The steering is too heavy without some assistance.
On the highway it gets twitchy.

 

[Dan R]

I will approach this in two ways.
A post on the Ford Truck forum suggested changing the pump valve to one from a sedan rather than a truck.
I got one on eBay that was fitted to the Mark VII and Taurus. More responsive steering feel?
If that doesn't work I will shorten the valve spring by cutting it. Got a NOS one in case I make a mess of it.

Dan