My 1997 F150 SC/SB V-6 has a squeal when I turn the steering wheel to the left and right. The squeal is continuous through the whole turning radius. It seems louder when it is cold out.

There is no noise at idle or when I am driving, just when turning the wheel. It is definitely coming from the engine compartment. The power steering fluid is topped off and it steers fine.


Any ideas? Serpentine belt / power steering unit / pully?

 

The pitman arm has been known to cause what you describe.

 

I had this same problem sortly after I purchased my truck. After the dealer having it nearly a week and replacing the steering column among other things, I topped of the power steering fluid and sortly thereafter the noise went away. I haven't had a problem since.

 

Highmilage97, thanks, I lubed the pitman arm and it solved the squeal.