Hi can anyone help please, Im new to the site I have a 2000 A3 18 t quattro I have just got it through its MOT new rear spring and tyres. Not a week later the steering rack has spilt its guts, im Skint having just changed jobs to a rural area (No bus services). Can I disconnect the power steering pump and use the car till payday with out breaking anything else, then when I have the money for the parts etc i can get it sorted... I would be very very grateful for any help with please
Hi can anyone help please, I'm new to the site and in need of help and advice
- Thread starter Phil.B
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Hi Phil
If you just disconnect the pump (I assume you mean remove the pipes but leave the belt on) then you will be running the pump dry of oil (the PAS oil also lubricates the pump) and hence KILL it. So will cost you even more for a new pump.
If you simply bypass the PAS pump and fit a shorter belt, the steering will be very heavy and would, in my opinion, be dangerous to drive.
Have you had a good look as to what it actually leaking? Pipe or rack?
Pipes can be repaired by a hydraulic hose specialist (Pirtek for example) if the rubber section has split/chafed. Or if it's a metal section of pipe then anyone with a MIG welder could patch the pipe up as a temporary repair until a new pipe is sourced.
Steering racks can also be reconditioned if a seal is leaking.
Though you could possibly find both on eBay/breakers yards etc.
If you just disconnect the pump (I assume you mean remove the pipes but leave the belt on) then you will be running the pump dry of oil (the PAS oil also lubricates the pump) and hence KILL it. So will cost you even more for a new pump.
If you simply bypass the PAS pump and fit a shorter belt, the steering will be very heavy and would, in my opinion, be dangerous to drive.
Have you had a good look as to what it actually leaking? Pipe or rack?
Pipes can be repaired by a hydraulic hose specialist (Pirtek for example) if the rubber section has split/chafed. Or if it's a metal section of pipe then anyone with a MIG welder could patch the pipe up as a temporary repair until a new pipe is sourced.
Steering racks can also be reconditioned if a seal is leaking.
Though you could possibly find both on eBay/breakers yards etc.
Hi I was thinking remove the pipes and fit a shorter belt would'nt run it with pump spinning... drove for 1/4 of journey home with no Power Steering and yes its heavy but driven classic lorries and cars and not significantly heavier not pleasant thats for sure but better than mile walk from bus to work
Deff the Rack.... £260 for recon unit is cheapest i have found so far..... thank god the weather is better looks like the walking shoes are coming out for the hike each way from the bus stop for a bit
Last edited:
vfr800
Registered User
I bought a recon rack for an A3 from a company called ACS a few years ago.
It worked well (once the garage fitted it properly - they cocked it up the first time)
Cost £125 back then but looks like the price has gone up.
Liam
It worked well (once the garage fitted it properly - they cocked it up the first time)
Cost £125 back then but looks like the price has gone up.
Liam
