Power steering fluid and manual rack conversion

[Notmikeb]

Two part question;

Part one. I want to convert my rack to manual steering. My understanding is that there are a few ways you can do it.
A. Replace the whole assembly with a manual rack ($$)
B. Remove all power steering components and join the lines at the rack creating a closed loop system.
C. Plug the inlet and outlet at the rack and remove the seals from the inner rack piston so fluid can flow from one side to the other easily.

The easiest solution seems to be to join the lines together. Do I need to join the pressure and return line at the steering gear or can I just cut the small metal crossover lines on the rack and join them with a section of hose? Do I lose lubrication at the steering shaft/pinion joint if I do that? I also am wondering if the size of those lines would create some sort of restriction causing an undesirable steering dampening effect during fast turning. I'd like to avoid removing the rack altogether if possible.

Part two. PO used conventional PS fluid instead of ATF. I know on some vehicles that can cause seals to fail and I'm wondering if that is the source of my leaks at the pump. If that is the case, should I consider this rack trashed as well or are these systems ok with regular PS fluid?

[Petros]

both the racks and pumps are pretty robust and last a long time. If it was run dry you will damage them, once a leak develops the seals have to be replaced. there is a Power Steering additive that softens and swells seals that leak, it sometimes works to fix it.

the rack needs to be lubricated, I would put a short loop of cut hose, with hose clamps, on the hose ends. There will not be much pressure, and it should not dampen it enough to matter. put about half the AFT in it that will fit and it should help lubricated it and not add too much hydraulic drag.

It is not that difficult to replace the rack, you do it from the wheel well, once unbolted it can be wiggled out from under the engine without removing the engine mounts. If you find a non-power rack in a wrecking yard you can change it out without too much trouble.

[ARCHINSTL]

If you are keeping the car for the long haul, while the rack is "being resolved," consider replacing the two fixing bushings.
See viewtopic.php?f=16&t=6519&hilit=bushings
My DS was totally rotten from engine oil - I had photos, but they were on my old 'puter, which died in 2012.
Tom M.

[irowiki]

As far as I know, power steering fluid is ATF, but without the dye, and some different additives. Don't think that caused your problems.