Personally I would throw away the original pump, they dont really cope very well (I blew 3, even after modifications). My suggestion would be to throw it away and get an aftermarket type, you will be better off in the long run!
Its a bit of a tough one as i have three pumps, so plenty of spares. I like the pump mounted reservoir too. Its one of the few parts of the build where i have cut some costs, i bought a Trik rack and control valve. I think the racks are ok but have heard mixed reports on the control valves(run 33x12.5 on the front). I am happy with most of the car but it is just a pig to steer.
what size are your power steering lines? If your return line is too small it will feel like the rack is locking up, generally your return line should be larger than your pressure line. click on this link to the howe website, it has a diagram for their racks that should explain a bit .
Its heavy hot or cold, and i think the lines are big enough. engine revs dont seem to make much of a difference. i have changed pumps to one that came of one of the old rush engine packages that i bought so that pump has probably been modified, i need to take it for a drive to see if that has improved things. I run a 33x12.5 on the front so its never going to be really light but it way too heavy.
Thanks Lamby, "Generally your return line should be larger than your pressure line" I checked the power steering pipe unions and they were both the same size, so I drilled the return side with a larger diametre drill and the steering seems to be be better ( that is, it felt that way in my garage. Cheers John
My pump is a 'lee' brand. When I got mine, the questions mr lee asked were mind boggling to say the least. They build every pump to individual vehicle. That said, just buy an aftermarket type off the shelf and most of your problems will be solved. I HIGHLY recommend to get away from the lexus pump, and am very surprised the rush cars have survived with them, not many others have. Also the less right angle fittings the better, and a large supply/return pipe is crucial. My car is still a little heavy at idle, but I will need to speed up pump rpm....then again, I have put up with it for a while now!
Ha ha Luke i think you are right.. and i am getting old. I have seen your latest work on the Erceg Motorsport facebook page and am very impressed ,your doing a great job. I will try and drop in next week but works pretty busy right now. 5.35 am and your replying to my post...your sick.
Friz I think the plumbing is pretty good and all the fittings are straight, no angles. I will have a look at the reservoir and see if the return can be ported out a little.
Jones i think the Lee is a good option, PMD have a good range on their site. I like the pump mounted reservoir with the Lexus pump, but otherwise not that bothered. Thanks to all for your replies, i will try and get the car out next weekend for some testing.
We sent ours to the guys that Chris recommended. Worked with no probs. Good feel but still reasonably light. It did cost a bit though. Get a price and weigh up your options for modify vs new.
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