Driving w/o P/S fluid

[96ExplorerSport]

I have a huge leak in my P/S system, one of the pressure lines is busted. I plan on taking my X to the shop and I'd like to know if I can drive it with P/S system dry? I know I won't have any P/S assistance, which is fine. I wonder if driving for a short distance w/o any fluid will cause any P/S pump damage.

Thanks,
Sergey

 

[jimbo74]

the pump itself may sieze without lubrication... but it should be ok..... jsut drive it... or get the line and replace it yourself

 

[BrooklynBay]

It's not a good idea, but I had to do it when my line broke. I was able to go to a store to buy the part. They didn't have exactly what I needed so I had to make one with the parts they had there. How far do you have to go?

 

[IZwack]

Have you tried contacting him via AIM?
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/member.php?u=29687#

 

[Tbars4]

izwack, you done it again,lol...wrong thread...

 

[Turdle]

NO!!!
the pump will seize--and throw the belt--

then you will need a new pump, a new belt, a new hose, and a jump start.

 

[cybergasm]

Have you tried contacting him via AIM?
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/member.php?u=29687#

bwahahahaha too funny but yes I have tried and nothing

 

[96ExplorerSport]

Thanks guys,
I'll tow it if needed. I am going to try to replace it myself first.

 

[ExploringNC]

Running power steering without fluid is like starting an outboard motor with no water. Pump will overheat and sieze and then you have allot more to replace.

 

[bak2school]

If it is empty 2 miles is too far, your only option besides towing, would be depending on how fast it is leaking, if it is not too fast you could take two quarts with you, fill it, drive till it just starts to squeal, pull over, fill it again, etc.., thats the redneck way,and you wil be taking a risk, but 2-3 quarts of fluid is cheaper that a towing bill.

 

[gijoecam]

Chop the pressure line at the break, then chop the return line, and insert a barbed fitting between the pressure and return hoses. Fill with fluid, and drive as far as needed with no power steering and have BOTh lines replaced. That way the pump never runs dry.

-Joe

 

[budwich]

If you are going to do any "temporary chopping", cut out the split line portion, get some appropriate tubing and a couple of clamps and slide the tube inside the remaining hose and clamp. It should last for a short drive. Having said that, if one hose has gone, the other is likely to follow so chopping and looping as "joe" suggested is just as effective in terms of saving your pump.

 

[96ExplorerSport]

thanks guys.