99 Taurus Power Steering Pump

[acesdoubled]

My power steering rack is shot, and I lack the money to fix it. So I'd prefer not to fix it and just drive without power steering. Unfortunately, doing this would mean driving without fluid in the pump (as it makes its way to the ground fairly quick). Any suggestions on how I could block the fluid from leaving the pump and entering the rack? Maybe some screws or something to put in the pressure slot and the return? It'd be great to hear your ideas.

[danielsatur]

Consider a used steering rack + pump from a salvage yard!
Profile the car, and grab one with few miles.

[acesdoubled]

I don't want to fix it. I just want to ensure that power steering fluid stays in the pump. I couldn't care less about having power steering itself. I just want to make the pump last.

Would putting a screw in the top hole (to filter) and clamping the bottom hose work?

[danielsatur]

Doe's the power steering pump belt drive more than the pump?

[acesdoubled]

Yeah. It's a full serpentine belt, so it drives everything; the Alternator, AC, etc.

[danielsatur]

Maybe, you can make a steering pump simulator to replace the pump.

[Willyum]

Don't think you can ever make it act like non power steering.

[plymouthsrock]

I don't recommend this- the suspension and steering geometry are set up for power steering (positive caster, etc.), making it very difficult to turn in low speed situations.

[acesdoubled]

I realize that the car is set up for power steering. I don't have the money for a new car or to replace the rack. I've gotten used to driving without the power steering. I just need to keep fluid in the pump so the pump doesn't burn out. Would running the pressure fitting hose up through to the return work since the vane androtor is what relieves the pressure?

[plymouthsrock]

That should work- the pressure is "created" within the rack, so bypassing it should prevent pressure from building.

[acesdoubled]

Originally Posted by plymouthsrock

That should work- the pressure is "created" within the rack, so bypassing it should prevent pressure from building.

Thank you. Finally someone actually answered my question. I appreciate it.