Power Steering pump

[Trikz]

Hey guys.

So my leaky rack and pinion just blew a major leak and all the PS fluid leaked onto the ground with the truck off. So my question, while I wait for my student loan to arrive so I can fix all the current problems, can I remove the PS pump belt and run the truck for at least another week or two?

 

[Qyota]

Not safely, no. Have you ever driven a vehicle without power steering? It's tougher than you think. Not to mention if your R&P "blew", chances are you have other steering components that are near failing.

Since you asked, my opinion is that no, you should not do what you are suggesting.

 

[Dous]

Not safely, no. Have you ever driven a vehicle without power steering? It's tougher than you think. Not to mention if your R&P "blew", chances are you have other steering components that are near failing.

Since you asked, my opinion is that no, you should not do what you are suggesting.

Yea it is very tough, it will be tougher than turning a vehicle that was designed to operate without power steering. Now you are turning the whole rack, and any fluid that may be left inside.

I did it once, and it was miserable and that was just to limp back home

 

[Trikz]

Last night I drove it from the work shop and I did have to experience driving the vehicle without fluid. And yes, the steering was very tough. The reason I ask is because I don't want to damage the pump itself. Guess I'll have to limp it back home and stop the truck till I can fix it. Thank you guys!!!

 

[agloukhoff]

Seriously?

Driving a car with no PS isn't that bad. Even cars that were designed to run with PS. Look at any track E30 - PS pumps get pulled and thrown in the trash. As long as you are moving turning is easy.

Parking? Well that - forget that. You will have to make 16 point turns to get into a spot.

You can unhook the pump and loop the steering lines into themselves and you will be ok.

Oh and if your pump is shot - I have one sitting around. Let me know if you need it.

 

[Trikz]

Thank you. Fortunately, the pump is fine. I might get this problem fixed tomorrow since my grandmother was kind enough to lend me the money. I'd say 13 years, 168k miles on the factory rack is a pretty good run. I'd rebuild it but for the cost in labor (at least locally) for a rebuild, I might as well get a new one. Once again, thank you all for the help and tips. Always appreciate this helpful community.

 

[Drcoffee]

The PS system is dependent on both the rack and pump being in good condition. I would suggest installing a Magnefine inline filter when you put the new rack in. And for the price of a new PS pump, i would put a new pump in at the same time. If the pump fails now, it usually takes the rack with it. Rebuilt pumps are usually $50.

rockauto PS pumps

$70-$93. Five to choose from

Magnefine filter. http://www.emergingent.com/subpage1Magnefine.htm

 

[Trikz]

The PS system is dependent on both the rack and pump being in good condition. I would suggest installing a Magnefine inline filter when you put the new rack in. And for the price of a new PS pump, i would put a new pump in at the same time. If the pump fails now, it usually takes the rack with it. Rebuilt pumps are usually $50.

Never heard of that filter mod. Will take it into consideration when I get my loan next week. Just got the rack done and it feels great. Super light steering. The pump isn't making any noise and I was quick to not let it run dry for too long (maybe a mile and a half without turning too much). But I might just change it just to be safe. Thanks for the tip.