Hi Godfrey!
My 93 impreza has just sprung a leak in the power streering line.
I would appreciate any advice on what parts I need to fix the leak,
where to get them, and on a procedure to follow to replace
the power steering line.
Is this a job I should try myself, or should I have it done?
If I have it done, any idea about the cost?
Thank you so much.
This is a fairly easy DIY project, assuming you have at least a set of
metric wrenches. IIRC, the PS lines are way expensive from Subaru,
like $250! Probably your best bet will be a used set from a salvage
yard. Seems like they were getting around $75 for a set last time I
needed one.
Take your car to a high-pressure car wash and clean the engine
compartment and subframe/steering rack areas. Put a pan beneath the
subframe to catch fluid. Remove the lines at the fittings on the
subframe, and allow fluid to drain into pan. Remove two screws holding
lines to intake manifold, and finally disconnect the lines from the
pump. I don't recall having to loosen the pump to accomplish this, but
if you need to, remove the drive belt, and reach thru the spokes of
the pulley to remove three bolts holding the pump to it's bracket. The
pump will then lift free of the engine.
Drain as much of the old fluid as you can, clean things up, being
careful not to get dirt into the system, and reassemble. Fill the pump
reservoir with fresh fluid, start the engine, work the steering
lock-to-lock a couple times, and top off the fluid level as required.
Hope this helps.
ByeBye! S.
Steve Jernigan KG0MB
Laboratory Manager
Microelectronics Research
University of Colorado
(719) 262-3101