I got my van back from Tom & Gerry’s. I blew a radiator hose a few days ago, but while it was in the shop I asked them to look at why the steering is so stiff. It turns out the entire rack and pinion steering system was worn out. Total cost for replacing all those parts and repairing the cooling system: a little under $2000.00.
The steering is now a lot more responsive, easier to handle. It was like a stubborn mule before, having to strong-arm it to turn. Now, all is well.