Lower steering shaft issue causing hard steering for R50/R52/R53
 

If you're getting a stiff steering feeling while turning and you've ruled out the power steering pump as the culprit you'll want to check the lower steering shaft and the condition of the u joints. Some describe the feeling as notchy steering while turning. This u joint can lock up and go bad over time. To test if it's at fault, try spraying some PB blaster on the u joint to see if your steering frees up.

You will need to replace this component if it is in fact your issue. Part number for the replacement part is 32-30-6-870-777-BOE CLICK HERE. Pictured below.

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1460408845.jpg

You will also need the following parts:

#5 on diagram above: Self-Locking Hex Nut (1) - CLICK HERE
#4 on diagram above: Eccentric Bolt (1) - CLICK HERE
#3 on diagram above: M8 x 33mm Torx Bolt (1) - http://www.pelicanparts.com/cgi-bin/smart/more_info.cgi?pn=32-30-6-778-609-BOE