Steering problem after offroad driving

[LonestarBronco]

I left the hubs on auto the whole day. Hmm, my situation here at school really sucks for vehicle maintenance. My truck is currently parked outside, in a gravel lot, half a mile away from my room, and I have no tools here. Simple tasks like jacking up the front end to have a look become major projects here.

 

[Zookie400]

grab onto the front driveshaft and see if it can free spin (make sure t-case is in 2x4) no need to jack up the front end for that.

as for the ball joints....your going to need that jack.

 

[silverF250]

You might check to see if you broke the shaft on the power steering pump. See if their is any play away from the pump. I did this in a 96 chevy while doing donuts in 4X4. Had pretty much the exact same symptoms. Good Luck.

 

[LonestarBronco]

Thanks for all the help fellas. I determined the problem yesterday. While driving through one of the little mud holes I must have struck the steering stabilizer.

I noticed a small puddle under the stabilizer yesterday. While there didn't appear to be much damage, there were drops of shock absorber oil on the dust boot. I removed the stabilizer and now the truck steers fine. Upon closer inspection I found damage along the under side of the stabilizer body.

 

[Zookie400]

interesting.....nice find!

 

[bushpilot]

a few weeks ago i saw one that had BENT the stablizer...
was bent so much you could see it comin' at you down the road...