Racking' my brain - advice requested, please.

[Ken]

Eric_R_Kissell at email.whirlpool.com wrote:
>
> Has anyone ever looked into trying to run the steering at a
> lower pressure? I mean intentionally, not accidentally when
> the hydraulic pump craps out. The really high pressures of the
> Type 44 hydraulic system must make it more prone to leaks.
> So, if you could lower the pressure in the steering segment of
> the system it might be less likely to leak. You would need to
> figure out a way to maintain the boost for the brakes. I know
> a list member or two have installed non-assisted steering
> racks and I believe vacuum assist on the brakes. I know those
> racks do not leak.
>
> Eric Kissell

Interesting idea.  I'm not intimately familiar (yet!) with the pumps on these cars, but IIRC they have two halves, each of which is responsible for one of the systems (brakes/steering).

And under those caps are radially oriented pistons, right?

If so, then maybe they can be machined down, engine piston style, to reduce the compression ratio?

If that's not how the pump is inside, then nevermind. :-)

Ken