Four problems related to power steering pump have been reported for the 1997 Ford F-150. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Power steering gear bolts broke. There was a pop noise and consumer could turn steering wheel in either direction but front wheels would not turn. Dealer replaced broken bolts from gear. Repaired power steering leak at hose from reservoir to pump.
Upon backing out of a parking space I felt a hard jolt and the truck shut off. I inspected the engine and could not find any leaks or anything out of the ordinary. I then restarted the engine with no problem. When I tried to turn the staeering wheel, I found it very hard to turn. I looked under the hood again and noticed the power steering pump wheel had a little shimmy to it and no leaks. I took the truck to the dealership. I was told at the dealership that these pumps go out anywhere from 10k miles and up. Unsat.
Failure of steering pump at low speed, causing loss of power steering. Pump has been repaired.
Power steering unit is failing to operate properly. Vehicle has been in the dealer shop on four occasions , and has two pumps replaced and the unit still gives off a hissing noise when vehicle is on. Dealer informed consumer that it was normal for the pump to run like that.