2002 MCS w/ 171K The original power steering pump gave up the ghost yesterday. I found a new ZF for $595 w/ 12 month warranty. Checking NAPA they offer a rebuilt pump for 465.00 with a lifetime warranty!! I contact NAPA to inquire about the warranty and was told keep my receipt and as long as I own the car, barring misuse, its covered.

What has been your experiences with "rebuilt" PS pumps. I need to make a decision fast. Right now the car is like steering a Sherman tank through a ballet recital.

 

I read that the brushes and commutator get dirty and stop the motor from working and can be cleaned. if you are comfortable with taking apart a motor. you may be able to take your old one out clean it and put it back in. Chances are the rebuilt one just got a cleaning, bearings, turned on a lathe and new brushes.

My pump has been giving me fits too. Im goint to try to clean it. if all fails Im off to napa.

 

I found a thread a couple of years ago documenting the PS cleaning process. I followed it for my 05 BUT my gasket stretched when I disassembled it. I was in a real pickle. I ended up getting a larger gasket and cutting it and sealing it with RTV. So far it's holding together. There was a lot of dust from the brushes on there.

Great news on the NAPA part, I, going to look into that up here in Canada. Thanks for the tip!

 

Oh and obviously look into the PS pump recall/lawsuit. Your car may qualify (mine was 2 months out of the suit)

 

Thanks for the comments. I think I will tear mine down before I buy a replacement. Napa is about $150 to $200 higher than other sources but the lifetime warranty is probably worth it.
Also I'm 21K miles over the pump warranty.

I'll reply back once I open the pump up.

 

Warning....
The Napa rebuild might require you turn in your old pump ...Or pay an extra fee...if the pump shows signs of an attempted repair...it might "fail" inspection to be a core....