hydraulic accumulator

[kahng@nimo.com]

As a newbie to the list, I was reading about the infamous hydraulic
accumulator, a.k.a. the "bomb".  I am convinced my 86 5ks (156K) is
suffering from a bad "bomb". I've replaced the hydraulic pump (blown seal)
and recently the master cylinder.

Classic symptoms, peddle is hard after shutdown, goes to floor when pressed
hard, brake warning light etc.

Could a bad "bomb" also affect the amount of steering effort required? My
car has always been a little tough to steer at low speeds, considering its
a power assist unit.  In my ignorance, I never questioned this because it
never really bothered me.
Any experience here?

Should I attempt to modify the "bomb" to make it rechargeable or should I
replace it with a new one?


P.S.-  I really have enjoyed all of the technical stuff in this journal. It
has encouraged me to go after a few items that I had been putting off for
too long.  You guys are great.  This weekend it was the timing belt.  Next
weekend, maybe the "bomb" and the power windows and then the climate
control............<sigh>.  (Love my audi but it don't love me)