Steering issues continue

Guys I'm back again needing your help.

My truck has 225K, it was time for some major maintenance on the front end so the list below is what I had done. There is a second sheet which includes the front axles and shocks. When I got the truck back, steering was a little stiff but he told me it would when I picked it up.
After a month of driving, noticed when I turned the steering wheel completely from one side to the other, I would get a pattern: stiff 1/4 turn, easy 1/4 turn, stiff 1/4 turn ...........
Doesn't matter which way you turn, left or right, same all the way around. After a couple weeks, got worse and then bam, completely stiff all the way. I thought "Power Steering pump" so I got one and replaced yesterday. (pump has never been replaced)
After replacing the PS pump, I'm back to the original problem, stiff, easy, stiff......
If I have the front tires off the ground, problem is still present.

I'm sure you guys can help me identify the problem. If I need to be more descriptive or even post a video I will.

Thanks

 

My money is on the intermediate shaft. It's a U joint right where the steering shaft enters the steering rack. A way to confirm is soak that U joint in PB blaster. That should free it up enough to make the steering smooth again. It's not a solution, just a band-aid/diagnosis procedure.

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/tacoma-2005-2015-intermediate-steering-shaft-replacement.541884/

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/the-lair.495066/page-1729#post-17351582

https://toyotaonlineparts.mcgeorgetoyota.com/p/Toyota__/Steering-Shaft/63545547/4520304021.html

 

Thanks again !! Will do after work !

 

That is a bear to change out
Air tools make life easier

 

Couldn't stand it, went to parts store, got some pb blaster and sprayed it on and smooth as silk. Just ordered me a new Intermediate Steering shaft for $140 from https://parts.toyotaoftampabay.com/.

Not going to tackle this myself. Changed out PS pump yesterday with cracked ribs and it was hell getting that tensioner pushed back with one hand and wrapping the belt around PS pump with the other. Can't hardly move today.

ONCE AGAIN !!! Thanks for the help guys. This forum is awesome and you guys know your stuff.

Thanks to Eatsleeptacos for the help, the power steering pump and the encouragement.

 

Damn, great score on the price of that shaft! Glad that the fix was easily found and you're one step closer to smooth steering.

 

Replaced steering shaft today. She's driving like a new one.

Thanks guys !

 

That's great to hear, enjoy that newfound drivability!