'88 5ktq Power Steering/Brake pump

["Bernard Littau" <bernardl@acumenassociates.com>]

Hi List,

My brake hydraulics are barely coming up to pressure.  If I idle the engine
and pump the brake for a bit the warning light comes on.  Stop and go
traffic tends to set off the warning light, too.  Pump also has a whine.
Sounds like the pump needs to be replaced with a new one, with a rebuilt one
or needs the application of a seal kit.

Which to choose: new, rebuilt or home rebuild?

Bomb is new so it is not likely the bomb.

However...

There was some evidence of small metal bits on the screen in the banjo bolt
for the bomb.  I guess there is a chance the anti-return valve on the bombs
are getting compromised by metal bits, causing them to not hold pressure.

Funny thing that turning the steering wheel will at times set off the
warning light -- I thought the two systems were independent, except for one
pump shaft and a shared reservoir.  Power steering seems fine.

Any BTDT or other insight appreciated here.  Like what are the symptoms of a
dying rack?  Is the rack disintegrating to the point where it is ruining the
pump and bomb with metal bits?

Thanks,

Bernard Littau
Woodinville, WA
'88 5kcstq