Replace Power Steering Pump

[phorne]

How hard is it to replace a power steering pump onm a 1997 Avalon? Can a back yard mechanic do thie or does it require special tools or something difficult like lifting the motor to replace??

Also - can you drive awhile with the pump not working, but pump not frozen? My sons car and he wants to bring it home - about 300 miles - so he does not have to pay to get it fixed!!

[kevdude]

Not hard to replace, just in a bad location. Easier if you take the left front tire/fender skirt off and get to it from there. No special tools, just take your time. You can run the pump empty, just won't have the power steering, obviously. I would remove the v-belt from the pump before driving that far, though, just to be safe.

Correction - right front (passengers side tire....sorry!)

[phorne]

Well - now the question has changed!! Turns out it is not the pump but the steering rack! I know there are issues with the air bad connections - but otehr than that how hard is the rack to replace?? Again any special tools?

thanks

[kevdude]

Ah yes, the dreaded rack and pinion! That's an all-day job, at least it was for me. Having extra hands to help would be useful! Be careful removing the tie-rod ends, you will need a special puller or pickle fork. I use the repair manual for most of my jobs, and they go a lot better. Good luck!

[phorne]

Thanks!