I have a 10,500lb mile marker hydraulic winch hooked up to my power steering pump. I did not have the jeep before the winch was installed so I don't know if the below is normal or not.

When wheeling with lockers disengaged but in 4wd, if my wheels get turned, quite often I have an extremely difficult time getting them to turn back the other direction. Putting the jeep in neutral (its an auto) and revving the engine with brake engaged while turning the steering wheel allows for me to easily turn the steering wheel.

The winch is not engaged when this is happening. I don't know the exact mechanics of how it is all "plumbed" together, but is it possible that maybe the increased hose distance or something else involved in just having them hooked together is robbing me of power steering "power"?

 

What is hydro assist? Is this any different or better than a more powerful power steering pump, assuming that is the cause of the power steering issue...?

 

Great link man, I really appreciate it!

 

Yea, I was just reading about that in the linked thread. Seems like it might be a good "inexpensive" psc alternative. Wish there was more feedback on how well it performs though.

 

Still curious as to whether the hydraulic winch, even if not in operation, could still be contributing to making the situation worse though.