My car just developed the dreaded power steering pump leak that seems to be common to these models. I'm trying to decide whether to replace the whole thing or get the power steering pump seal kit . I've seen some people mention the kit on this board, but little information on the installation. So, once and for all-
-Has anyone here installed the seal kit? If so-
-How tough was it to install?
-Are any special tools or sealant required?

 

I'd want to make sure that there wasn't any wear in the bushings/bearings before I invested any time doing work.
A factory manual might give you the specs you need,and you'll need a trained eye/hand or an indicator to see where you're at.
Good luck.

 

Unless your a trained tech I wouldn't attempt it. You have to be very careful when resealing a power steering pump. I have even seen remans that were done wrong. Mainly due to the fact that they mix and match parts from other pumps. If you have more than 85K I would replace the pump. The best one is a brand new one from Lexus. But it will be very expensive. Don't wait too long, if enough of that power steering fluid leaks on the alternator, it will go bad too.

 

I am certainly a non-techie, but is it possible to build a shield to protect the alternator from a leaking power steering pump?

I'm going to look into the engine (scary thing for me!) and try to see where these two parts are located. I have 114,000 miles and really would not want to replace a power steering pump AND an alternator!!!

 

Do you have tools? can you change oil on your car? If yes, then
Contact Steve Ganz (800) 908-6969 x 2381, and order a power steering high pressure hose. Replace it yourself. This is very common with any Toyota, yes your car is a Toyota.
Do you have a shop manual? if not get one from him also.

VQT 93 SC400 White/Tan

 

Thanks for everyone's help on this. Since the power steering pump failure is so common with SC's, this would be a good subject for an FAQ section.
A web search revealed remanufactured pumps at PartsAmerica.Com for $144 from A1 Carbone, $178 for Beck/Arnley, and $202 for AC/Delco.
I've had good luck with AC/Delco parts in the past; don't know much about the other two companies.

 

FYI- the saga went like this...
-Called my dealer for a quote to replace the pump and was told $800-1000 or more(!), "depending on what else we have to replace". I said f#*% that, it's just a Toyota, I can do this.
-Got a rebuilt pump off Ebay for $120. Noticed that it had an extra fitting on it that the original didn't have. Called the company & was told that the pump was for a LS400, but was the same as an SC pump. The extra fitting is for the LS variable assist that SC's don't have. Was instructed to put a plug in the extra fitting, and the pump should work all right.
-Installed plug, then replaced old pump. Took about 2.5 hours to figure out how to remove & replace without a manual. Looked scary at first, but actually was a lot simpler than I made it seem.
-Was not getting any power assist with new pump, even after repeated burping and adding fluid. I asked advice on this board, but the post must of gotten wiped out somehow. Emailed company, and they sent out a pump specifically for the SC.
-Just installed the second rebuilt pump (only took 1 hr for removal, replacement and bleeding, after I knew what I was doing) & everything is working fine-no leaks, no noise and full assist. Got off pretty cheap, too.