Steering rack / pump question

["Renier Meyer" <RMeyer.rdi@reutech.co.za>]

My 200T has suddenly developed strange behaviour on the steering 
side.

The steering fluid reservoir leaked and the pump ran dry for 5 or so 
minutes. (somehow the sensor did not register it).

The steering is stiffer after the episode. Is there anything I can do 
to bleed or clean out the system, or reduce the pressure in the 
system?

With this or maybe causing it is a strange "klunk " noise when I go 
through a bump. The sound comes from the middle of the left side of 
the car and sounds like metal on metal. Also when turning sharp when 
parking there is an occasional thud which can be felt on the steering 
as well. Feels like something is wedged and when turning back the 
rack forces it loose. Not a sharp thud, feels like a piece of rubber 
is still stopping it.?

I had the car at my friend's shop and a comprehensive investigation 
shows nothing visually wrong. The steering rack boot is torn but 
things look OK inside. No bolts feel loose or nothing seem stuck??

Any guidance on what we can look ?  What should we look for?
What possible remedies can we try?

Any help would be appreciated.

TIA

Renier Meyer
89 200T Durban South Africa.