PAS problems

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Rousey66
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Sat Jun 28, 2014 11:55 pm

As some people may be aware I've got a dodgy power steering system at the minute. Funds have now become available in order to start sorting it so I'm just looking for a bit of advice.

Basically I've got now power steering at all. The fluid in the reservoir is a mucky brown colour. The steering is just as heavy with the ignition off as it is with it on. With the engine running and the reservoir cap off, there's no disturbance in the fluid at all when operating the steering. To me that'd suggest an immediate problem with the pump rather than the lines or rack. Please correct me of I'm wrong!

I'm also losing fluid out of the system. The drivers side of the rack is wet with fluid. Now given that the wet patch is on the opposite side as the pump I don't think it's just dripping down onto the rack or finding it's way there via gravity. I could be wrong though. F***ed rack as well as pump?

I'm going to start by replacing the pump. So in everyone's opinion, what's my best option to go with? Buy a cheap second hand pump? Get a reconditioned pump? Buy a brand new one? If anyone knows where I can get any of the said items, please let me know!
jmc330i
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Sun Jun 29, 2014 12:31 am

As it sounds like your rack is leaking, I'd start by replacing the rack - possibly with an E46 067 rack if funds allow.

Might be a stupid/insulting question (it's not meant to be), but is the PAS belt still fitted? Its a separate belt and it wouldn't be the first time I've seen them come off and people not realise!

If your pump is goosed, one of the traders on here should be able to sort you out with a decent secondhand PAS pump.
James
'91 325i Sport
'93 318i touring 16v
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Rousey66
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Sun Jun 29, 2014 1:02 pm

I've just sorted the full lot, rack, pump, lines etc with one of the traders so I'll get the whole lot done.

And I haven't checked the belt to be honest! Might be a wise idea to have a look before going through with the full replacement!

Cheers for the advice!
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harry_p
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Sun Jun 29, 2014 1:12 pm

Well, the leak from the rack is bad news so that will need replacing regardless.

I'd start with that and see what happens. The pumps themselves are usuall pretty reliable. But yeah, it'll only work if the belt is fitted!
cheers,

harry
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