Ford Ka power steering

[briwire]

The steering on my Ka has gone very heavy. I can still drive but obviously when turning, especially at low speed it is quite hard to turn.

I've checked the tyres, power steering fluid level, the pump drive belt and all seems fine.

I've never worked on power steering before and never had any need to. Any idea as to what it might be. Could the pump be U/S? Is it something that is easily rectified or a job for the professionals? Is it common with Kas?

 

[davedasave]

does the steering feel like it does when the engine isn't running or is it just a bit heavier than normal?