So i blew up the steering in my 3rd Gen...
 

I havent taken the time to really dive into it and figure out whats going on, just towed it home and hopped into my DD... So I'm really not sure where the problem lies. I'm here asking what to look for, and if anyone else has had a similar issue...

Here's a rundown of what happened for if anyone has any ideas...
The truck was steering fine until i got into a parking lot, was backing into a spot, turned right, and heard a couple pops (almost sounded like it was in 4wd but wasnt)... pulled forward again to find another spot and see what the noise was, and as i steered left to straighten out in the lane, a couple more pops and suddenly my wheel turns and tires dont...

We could smell hot fluid, couldnt tell what it was, shut her down and checked the fluid level, it was good with no discoloration or debris on the stick...
pitman arm seems fine, links on axle end are all fine...

What else could it be? steering shaft from the column? could the pump give out without giving any obvious symptoms?

I knew it was a matter of time, I am on 37x13.5s and often have no power steering when in parking lots and not moving, having to crank the wheel manually. So now i am looking to see what i can get to upgrade my steering system while i fix it...

I found this PSC gear box, and it's pretty much what will go in if the problem is the box itself. i have yet to see if i need a new pump as well, but am hoping not!

hoping to get my baby back on the road! Thanks db