1990 5.0 lx convertible. so last nite i had this very strange problem. i was drving home from work and about a milr from my apartment i noticed my steering wwas becomeing a little sluggish, so instantly i thought, oh, just need some power steering fluid. then as i am pulling into the parking lot and making my way to my apt building the steering became increasingly sluggish and a creakingsounds was coming from the steering column inside the car, almost like old wooden staird creaking, but not high pitched. the further i porgressed through the parking lot, the more the difficult it became to steer and the distance i could turn the wheel in either direction decreased. but by the time i made it to my parking spot i couldn't even turn the wheel to get into the spot. i had to make like 7 point turn(literally) just to get in the spot. i tried to straighten my car out because i was in the spot pretty crooked, but i couldn't turn the wheel at all at that point, it was almost liek i had the car off and the wheel lock was engaged. i have to be at work today by 5 so i'm gonna head out to my car and investigate. help!!!

 

Is there fluid in it or no??Maybe the pump went?Could be a couple things.Is there any fluid on the ground

 

yeah, there is sufficient fluid in it, but the fluid looks kinda brown n dirty. maybe there is buildup or somethign in the pump that is causing a malfuncion? there are no apparent leaks from the hose that runs from the pump to the steering assembly. i really have no clue.

 

Even if the pump went out you should be able turn the wheel still. As you know the slower you are going, the harder it gets. Sounds like your steering rack has a problem or the steering shaft.

 

ya if the cars on and the wheels not locked u can always turn the wheel, its just like "arm strong" steering except it will be a little harder