Help power steering issue

Hi guys, this is my 1st posting on this site, so bear with me. I recently found a nice 2007 Taco with only 90k on it for 2700. I knew at that price I'd run into some issued, but these are a bit tough for me to figure out.. 1st one is the 4 wheel drive low light is blinking and it seems to go in and out of 4x4 fine. But it's a fast blinking light. The 2nd issue is the power steering is really rough. It steers with some assistance from the pump, but it's harder than normal to turn. It also is kind of lumpy. Like it feels like the power assist is coming on and off throughout the turn. This condition came on after I I found a leak in the line, low fluid and I fixed leak and filled the reservoir. Seems worse when it's cold. If anyone could help, I'd really appreciate it

 

Welcome to TW

 

Thank you

 

For your 4LO light, check the limit switches. For your power steering, measure your pump discharge pressure and rack outlet force. Report back with findings.

 

Waiting for OP`s answers!

 

Thank you for the trouble shooting advice. I'm new to this group and had no idea how cool other Tacoma owners were. Well,, I managed to solve my power steering issue. The steering wheel felt like it was binding up when I'd take corners and it was intermittently better after driving for a bit. Since there were no more leaks after I fixed the line, I checked the steering column and found the lower u-joint near the rack was rusty and stiff. I jacked up the front of truck and got both front wheels off the ground and had a friend work the steering wheel back and forth while I cleaned the u-joint and then put white lithium grease on it. All of a sudden the steering was smooth and easy to turn. Apparently those little U- joints are unprotected from the elements and get rusted if not keeper lubed up. I still have the FWD low light flashing. Where is the limit switch that you suggested I check and how do I check it.? Thanks again for your help.

 

You've isolated the steering issue, but likely only a temporary fix.

This thread may be helpful to a longer term solution. https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/how-to-lower-intermediate-steering-shaft-fix.638653/

Is this a salt country truck? Kinda sounds like it. So the big question is the condition on the frame. Have you thoroughly poked, prodded and beat on it?

At the price you paid, I'm hoping someone wasn't just dumping one that was ready to fail.........

 

This thread we've compiled here should be able to help you diagnose the 4wd issue:
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/4wd-system-operation-help-thread.742420/

 

Hi Clearwater Bill, you are correct about me living in Salt country. I was lucky and got a truck that had the frame replaced for free by Toyota. But, that doesn't mean they replaced everything underside. The truck does still have rust issues that will need to be addressed. The bumper nearly fell off a couple of days ago. I probably will be changing most of the brake lines soon too. But I did pay 1/3 the price and wouldn't have been able to cut a check for 12 grand for a clean, rust free, low mile Tacoma. So I guess I will be dumping so time and money into it. But I will end up with a pretty nice truck with a new frame and great body and interior for a bargain. So I agree the grease repair was temporary. I have to just get through the holidays, then it's time to get her up on the lift and make it right. Thanks again for all your help. I definitely will take your advice instead of throwing parts at the FWD system