Ok this is a unusual issue or at least to me it is.

I have a 07 F150 Stx with a 4.6 I recently had a bad front end alignment and it ruined my tires.
So I had to invest in a new set and new front end alignment.
After the alignment my alternator went out literally the next day so I replaced it and while I was at it installed a new serpentine belt.

So after all of this I started to notice that the steering had gotten stiff. hard to turn rather I can do it but my wife theres no way.
and sometimes its fine but most times its not.
So I went to the obvious the front end alignment was wrong and had them check it and nothing was out
they re checked the balance on the tires as well.

so that leaves me the serpentine belt and the power steering pump.

My power steering isn't making any noise no whining or anything when I turn,
Its stiff on the right and left turns seems to get stiffer the father I have to turn in.

could I have installed the serpentine belt incorrectly somehow and its effecting the power steering pump?

I thought that could be a issue but its not stiff all the time just most of it.

or is it the pump for sure? I wish there was a way to test them beyond hey my steering is tighter

any help would be great

 

Jack up the front end, and try to turn the wheels by hand with out the truck running. You should be able to do it with a pinky finger.

Start the truck and try it again.

Come back and post the results.

 

Steering shaft is a common problem, check if the U joints are rotted out on the top and bottom, if so replace it