2004 5.7 power steering issue

[dodgeram4me]

On my 2004 ram with hemi engine. I have a steering issue. Not sure if it's the ram or the pump. When truck idles it's very hard to turn steering wheel. When I give rpms it works fine..
Anyone have idea on what's bad?
Pump or steering ram?
Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks

 

[Curmudgeon]

Easy stuff first? Verify power steering fluid is at a good level?

Welcome to RamForum.

 

[jws123]

Sounds like a failing pump but as mentioned above fluid condition level ect check your belt and tension on the belt as well.

 

[Fast69Mopar]

On my 2004 ram with hemi engine. I have a steering issue. Not sure if it's the ram or the pump. When truck idles it's very hard to turn steering wheel. When I give rpms it works fine..
Anyone have idea on what's bad?
Pump or steering ram?
Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks

This is a pump issue. When the pump is in proper working order the rotor vanes inside the pump are in a "tight" clearance with the came ring. The vanes are like little flaps on a wheel. Under normal circumstances they move plenty of fluid at idle but when the vanes begin to wear they allow more fluid to escape past the flaps and the steering feels hard to turn unless you bring the RPM up.

Now, there is a possibility that the spool valve is seized or "gunked up" but I doubt it. In over 25 years in the dealership I have replaced a total of two pumps for a failed spool valve.

Grab a pump and a pulley and you'll be back in business.

 

[dodgeram4me]

Thanks for all the responses and recommendations. Fluid is good.belt is at right tension.. So I'll take the replace pump idea and pulley
Thanks for the help