New steering rack seems too tight?

I bought a 2000 that seems pretty well sorted for having 270k on it. The PO installed a new steering rack in February, but the steering feels very tight to me. While not as hard as manual steering, it seems way harder than typical power steering in other vehicles I've had. I don't know any other Tundra owners so I can't compare it to anything. I know it's hard to tell without trying it, but does this sound normal, or is there a way it can be adjusted? The fluid is perfect level and looks new.

TIA...JJ

 

There are some u joints in the steering shaft right above the floor board that can cause the steering to be tight. Try cleaning them up as much as you can and then spraying with PB Blaster. If that helps, then the u joints are the problem. (The PB Blaster is a temporary fix and you'll have to replace that section of the steering shaft).

 

Besides what is stated above, also consider the alignment. More castor can make your steering feel heavier.

 

Thanks, I'll take a look at the u-joints. The alignment seems fine, drives straight as an arrow...and like a Cadillac

 

Unless it has aftermarket UCAs I don't believe a 2000 has enough castor available to noticeably change the steering feel. But the alignment could be off elsewhere to cause the tires to resist change of direction. Is it running a lift, UCAs, or big meaty tires?

 

No, it's actually running 2018 4runner limited wheels/tires. They look silly because of the offset!

I just added a profile picture and you can see the wheels, though the angle isn't the best.

 

Spidertrax 1.25 inch spacers. Install them exactly as per the instructions. I'm running 2016 Tacoma TRD OR wheels. Spacers make it look much better. Spidertrax spacers are high priced but I'm not gonna try and save $100 and risk my safety. (This won't help with your steering but your truck will look better anyway)