My 1972 4wd K5 CST steering binds often when making full turns in either direction in 2wd. When starting to turn the steering becomes incredibly hard to turn. After pulling hard enough it lets loose and becomes easy to turn. Then it seems like going back in the other direction it binds again. It does not bind all the time on every turn. It seems like colder weather (less than 30) makes it worse. Wet weather does not affect it. I have replaced the power steering belt, replaced the steering damper/shock, and greased all of the front end fittings. Power steering fluid level is on the appropriate line. If the front end is jacked up, when turning the wheel it will bind on the first turn then turn freely. I have read the "steering binding" and "steering binding up" and other threads which do not fully address my issue.
Any ideas?

 

Steering gear maybe?

What type of steering gear and how many miles?

Seen that happen on an old Studebaker. Steering gearbox was neglected and conical pin had worn into the helicoidal gear.

 

I have 96,000 original miles on it.
I don't know what steering gear it has. It would be what was original to the 1972. I'll have to look at that closer.
I was wondering if the ball joints could be binding and if lubrication could help. Any thoughts?
I admit I am looking for easy fixes before dismantling everything.

 

Looks like you're in for some checking.

Binding can occur nearly anywhere. I have seen binds (mild blocking which could be overcome with a little jerk) from broken ball joints. Depending in what position it binds it can be any component. Even bent bars or joints could be the culprit as well as non OEM wheels and tires that rub somewhere.

Will probably need to be lifted and checked carefully on every component.

 

Thanks for the suggestions,
I jacked up the front end and sprayed the rubber bushings on the ball joints with silicone, turned the wheels back and forth and continued spraying them thoroughly several times.
Upon driving it, this seems to have relieved the binding.
I don't want to replace ball joints unless necessary. Any thoughts on spraying with something heavier like penetrating lubricant or oil. I am hesitant to try those for fear of attracting and holding dirt, sand etc. to grind in there.

 

Does it have grease fittings on the steering and knuckles?

A good grease job will probably do good.

Also check for rubbing. Depending on the tires and wheels it may touch somewhere.

 

I greased all the fittings that exist and that didn't make a difference. The only thing that improved it was spraying the ball joint rubber bushings with the silicone. I guess I will just try to maintain it by spraying with the silicone periodically.
I don't think there is any wheel rubbing, but I will check that thoroughly.