The tires are under-inflated.

Inflate the tires to the specified pressure. Refer to Tire Inflation Pressure Specifications in Maintenance and Lubrication.

The lower coupling flange rubs against the steering gear adjuster plug.

Adjust the over-center and thrust bearing preload to specifications. Refer to Steering Gear Pitman Shaft Over-Center Preload Adjustment - Off Vehicle or Steering Gear Worm Gear Thrust Bearing Preload Adjustment - Off Vehicle .

The steering wheel rubs against the directional signal housing.

Adjust the steering jacket. Refer to Steering Shaft, Lower Bearing, and Jacket - Disassemble - Off Vehicle or Steering Shaft, Lower Bearing, and Jacket - Assemble - Off Vehicle .

The steering shaft bearings are tight or frozen.

Replace the bearings. Refer to Steering Shaft, Lower Bearing, and Jacket - Disassemble - Off Vehicle or Steering Shaft, Lower Bearing, and Jacket - Assemble - Off Vehicle .

Binding is present in the following components:

Replace any parts, if needed. Refer to Steering Linkage Inspection in Steering Linkage or Ball Joint Wear Check in Front Suspension.

The steering gear is not in proper alignment to the column.

Align the steering column.

The tie rod pivots are not centralized.

Adjust the tie rods to the center pivots, if needed. Refer to Steering Linkage Inspection in Steering Linkage.

The suspension ball joints and the steering linkage lack lubricant.

Lubricate the suspension ball joints and the steering linkage. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations in Maintenance and Lubrication.

The valve spool is stuck or plugged.

1. Remove the valve.
2. Clean the valve.
3. Replace the valve, if needed. Refer to Steering Gear Valve Replacement - Off Vehicle .

A rubber spacer binds in the shaft tube.

1. Properly seat the spacer.
2. Lubricate the inside diameter of the shaft tube with a silicone lubricant.

The front wheels are not in alignment.

1. Inspect the wheel alignment. Refer to Wheel Alignment Measurement in Wheel Alignment.
2. Adjust the wheel alignment, if needed.

The steering gear adjustment is too tight.

Adjust the over-center and thrust bearing preload to the specifications. Refer to Steering Gear Pitman Shaft Over-Center Preload Adjustment - Off Vehicle or Steering Gear Worm Gear Thrust Bearing Preload Adjustment - Off Vehicle .

The return hose has a kink.

Replace the hose.

The steering intermediate shaft stone shield assembly is side-loaded against the shaft assembly.

Eliminate the side-load.