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Old 12-07-2008, 02:27 AM   #34 (permalink)
Christ
Moderate your Moderation.
 
Join Date: Nov 2008
Location: Troy, Pa.
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Pasta - '96 Volkswagen Passat TDi
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As far as manual vs. power steering:

I've pulled power steering two ways: use a manual steering rack in place of the PS unit, and just pull the PS pump and loop the lines back through the rack.

The former is the far preferred method, since the PS racks usually have a longer ratio (more turns lock to lock) which allows you to turn the wheels considerably easier while operating slowly or sitting still (not that you should turn the wheels while sitting still.).

The latter, however, works just as well, but it will be quite noticeable when you're done. You will find it VERY difficult (compared to having PS) to turn the wheels while moving slowly or sitting still (not that you should turn the wheels while sitting still).

During drive time, you will get used to it so fast that you most likely won't notice a difference, other than increased steering response. (It takes more pressure to turn the wheels now, so you'll get a better "feel" from the wheel.) Also, the wheel will be slightly more respondant to bumps in the road and tire feedback. Again, not significant changes, but enough to notice.


A/C removal is simple: drain the system (legally) and remove the pump and condensor/evap can/lines. Replace the belt or put a pulley in place of the A/C pump. (if your model ever came w/o A/C, you can just replace the belt, easy as pie. If it always had A/C, someone will make an A/C delete pulley that bolts on in place of the A/C pump. My wife's GP was the latter.)

Often times, it's very easy to fabricate an idler pulley for the belt to ride on and mount it to the A/C pumps location, if no one has made one already for your application.
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