Two problems related to steering gear box shaft pitman have been reported for the 1997 Ford Expedition. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Consumer heard loud noise and noticed lack of steering control. Delaer found pitman arm had to be replaced. Ford was not concerned that this was a safety issue, claimed that this part was routine maintenance.
While trying to park lost power steering . Dealer replaced pitman arm/steering assembly/ intermediate arm/power steering gear box, and rack and pinion.