I have a 1997 Dakota with a 4.7. Replaced the power steering pump, replaced both lines refilled bled and it drove just fine for 2 weeks. Now it is hard to turn at all times. The belt is fine take off the cap and turn it and the fluid is moving through the pump. I am at a loss.

 

you need to go back through everything, a tight feel hydraulic system is pressure/restriction, if i were you id go through the steering system from top to bottom, if taking the fluid out the system does it, then you need to swap out parts and find the culprit, if its still tight, id remove the steering column from the rack, process of elimination is key, make sure theres no debris in the system, which is my bet, but you could have a part that is not manufactured to spec.......

 

Toolbox, welcome to the forum.

You don't have the 4.7. They weren't available until 2000 in the Dakota. It's either a 5.2 or 5.9 if it's the 8 cylinder.

Check you lower intermediate steering shaft. If it binds it can make your steering VERY difficult. You can temporarily put some penetrating oil on it, if it appears bad, to see if it loosens up.