6 replies to this topic

[Lump]

Long story short I've managed to bugger the pressure line fitting on my power steering rack (I went from a slight leak to a geyser) There's no chance of holding fluid in the system without refilling every few minutes.

If I disconnect the pump (which I'm guessing would burn out if a didn't) can I damage a power steering rack by driving for a short distance with no fluid in it (with a view to getting to someone who can fix it)?

[fulloc]

you can drive it.
i wouldnt drive far though...
take the belt off if possible and leave fluid in it to lube

[Maru-So]

Power steering fluid has nothing to do with lubrication of rack so you're not going to damage it by driving around. I would take the belt off and empty the system before driving though.

[sholdowa]

yes, I've split a pipe on a long trip. Was a bit interesting seeing as every now and then I got a bit of a nudge from what little fluid was left, and there was 3 inches of snow on the roads.

[Lump]

yes, I've split a pipe on a long trip. Was a bit interesting seeing as every now and then I got a bit of a nudge from what little fluid was left, and there was 3 inches of snow on the roads.

Shit that sounds a bit ropey

I've found someone who can have a look at it - so I'll disable the pump and give my forearms a workout for a change and get it sorted.

[Yowzer]

Depending on how the steering on the car is set up it can be pretty bloody hard work to steer as well.
My cressida had a lush fluid leak and when it ran dry it was quite the mission to turn corners.

[hmmmnz]

yeah no drams,
i drove my old subaru leone for about a year with no power steering,
f knows how it kept passing warrants