PassingLane

Hey guys, as my first car, I'm buying a '88 2.3 Mustang, and it has one problem with it. The power steering has a leak in it. So I was wondering if I would still be able to drive it home, or will it need to be towed? And how much would it cost to fix the leak, once I do get it? (min-max)

thanks a lot,
Patrick.

1meanGT

Patrick,

Since you did not make it clear where your power steering leak is located, or how far you need to move your vehicle, it would be difficult to gauge a recommendation.

To help you determine your level of safety, I offer the following advice.

1. You can drive without power steering. It is more difficult to steer so plan accordingly with speed and turning.

2. How bad is the leak? Is it a seap, a bleeder, or a gusher? A seap- bring plenty of supply fluids with you and drive. A bleeder may be ok if you do not need to go far. A gusher- and a long ways to drive, you could swap the serpentine belt with one without powersteering/AC and smog to get home. If you decide to go for this, I have a belt routing diagram somewhere to assist you with this and possibly the size. This would cost you around $25.


As for diagnosing cost- where is the leak?

Cracked power steering resevoir? Replace tank- unknown cost

Rubber oil seal- less than $1

If it is a pump, there are plenty of used/rebuilt pumps on the market from $25 to $140.

Hoses can vary in price as well. $25 on up

Rack- $125 to $225- alignment will be needed which could possible pinpoint the need for other mechanical repairs for a successful allignment.

Labor would not be excessive for any of the repairs. Hope this helps!