Power steering should I do it!

[geologic]

I'm in deep on the front and now drivers side of the motor. I've removed the radiator and changed the front crank seal, oil pump o-ring, thermostat,water pump and alternator. Going to reseal the valve cover, dizzy o-ring cap button and wires, clean throttle body and intake, and replace all water hoses, vacuum hoses and belts. Should I go ahead and rebuild the 210k power steering pump while I'm there? I've read the rebuild threads and don't have some of the tools necessary. Im considering doing it since I will not have this good an access later if I have to do it. Sorry but the pics parts of the iPhone app doesn't work. It just blows the photos out of the post boundaries and messes up the post. So I'm words only for now. Geologic

 

[McDowra]

Build it, I didn't use any special tools when I rebuilt mine

 

[Tools R Us]

I would replace the power steering return lines, with that stuff out of the way, the job is much easier. The pump, , it's easy to get to do at anytime. If it is leaking, reseal it, the kit is only ~$15, so .

 

[itechnology]

tools r us ................ when you say reseal it does that mean litterally just replace a few seals or must you rebuild the entire pump? how long does it take in either case?

 

[toytechnician]

That gear driven P/S pump is pretty easy to get at. Only the oil filter boxes it in. If it's not leaking or groaning I would leave it.

 

[Tools R Us]

tools r us ................ when you say reseal it does that mean litterally just replace a few seals or must you rebuild the entire pump? how long does it take in either case?

The kit is just a bag of seals, don't know what you would rebuild?

 

[Buckru]

Just did mine last week so I can give you recent info. As tools mentioned, replace the return line. It's a booger to get at but quite easy with everything out of the way. I made my return hose about 2 inches longer. Reason for this is it gives easier access the belt tensioner bolt.

I had no special tools when doing this. Only tip I can give.

 

[davework]

I would definately rebuild it. Just replaced my pump at 217k. Lines too.

 

[Frankencruiser]

My pump is quiet leak free at 260k miles. I wouldn't consider rebuilding it as PM. Change the fluid every 24 months and it should last forever.

 

[geologic]

Great feedback! Thanks mud

I think I'm going for it. The pump worked fine but leaks and the low pressure hoses are cracked and leaking. I wish that the factory parts were reasonably priced but they are NOT! I get a reasonable price from the local Toyota dealer but the pump's around 500 and the high pressure line around 275. Can't get the low pressure without buying the whole cooler at around 175. Don't know how far to go but it's hard to tell what's leaking now that everything is apart. I'm thinking aftermarket low pressure hose replacement, pump rebuild kit OEM, take off the high pressure hose clean it inspect it and put it back on. Geologic

 

[Tools R Us]

RockAuto Auto Parts

The pump kit is ~$15, return line is 3/8" hydraulic hose, the feed line 5/8" hose, the high side is available from Gates, etc. Can likely get all of it for ~$100.

 

[steffan]

i wouldn't mess with it unless it's not working/ leaking. if it's lasted this long, it's probably a good one and messing with it only will upset the balance. it's not that hard to get to even with everything together - just replace the hoses and work on your other issues.

 

[livinoffroad]

Definitely do it. At 161K, mine has been leaking for over 30K. That said, it can be performed as a separate procedure, (I'm about to do mine) without any special tools, except a gear puller.
Easier, however, to do it while you're already in there, then you won't have to worry about it for the life of your rig. I'm tired of aiming for my drip pan, when I park in the garage.

 

[geologic]

Parts ordered I'm on it.