I think I solved my steering squeak/groan...at the bottom of the steering shaft (driver's side of firewall)there's a rubber/neoprene bushing that the shaft goes thru...I sprayed this liberally w/ WD-40 (used a small scre driver to spread the wall where the shaft passes thru). Not only did this solve the noise, but the steering wheel seems to turn easier.
I don't know how long this'll last, but it was 10 degrees in Connecticut this morning and, for the first time this winter, the steering was smooth and quiet. Seems to be a lubrication issue at this bushing.
Hope this helps y'all.