New Guy with long commute

[Sularus]

Hello everyone. I stumbled onto this site while researching an idea I have for modifying a power steering pump with an electric clutch commonly found on ac compressors. I want to do this with control circuitry to control when the clutch is engaged and when it is off for optimal savings. I will also be doing a mod to control when the field wire for the alternator is energized.

I drive a 2001 Pontiac Grand Prix with the 3.8L non supercharged engine. I have a 45 mile commute to and from work, so I am seriously interested in saving fuel. Unfortunetley I cannot afford to get rid of this vehicle right now, so I am looking to scrape together the parts I need to get things done.

Anyway, I look forward to learning as much as I can from everyone here.

[Frank Lee]

Just pull the belt off altogether if you can and be done with it. Power steering is quite manageable w/o power.

[Sularus]

I would except it is a serpentine system, and the car weighs almost 3500 lbs with most of the weight on the front wheels. I have tried turning it without power steering and it is very hard to move. Especially at low speeds.