Steering is tight

[vwfish]

So, I'm out pushing some loose dirt around and the steering gets real tight especially when turning all the way left. I thought I might have bent something, so I bring it in to the garage and check it over... Don't see anything obvious. I took the tie rods off and the wheels rotate freely and the rods move freely. Although better, the steering is still tight. At this point I would think I should be able to freely spin the steering wheel back and forth. Next I opened up the box and rotate the steering wheel out of the box. All looks good, but when I try and move the steering knuckle in front it is very difficult and I would think that should move freely.
Suggestion?

[offrink]

Try a kerosene flush of the box. Maybe some grit is binding things up.