Power steering pump leak

[frog]

I've been offered an 8V GTI at what i consider a steal, although it has a short MOT  , anyway i have been told by the owner that the power steering pump is drinking more fluid than an alky with money 
How much would a new pump be (it might only be a seal but i'm working on worst case scenario and it might help me get the price down even further)
Are there any idiots guides or a how to guide?

[Benrevs]

They are fairly expensive to replace tbh. AHve you checked where the pipes join the reservoir and the rack etc? The pump itself cant really leak, more likely the hose fixings. Ben

[frog]

The main problem is the power steering rack - this has a slow leajk and has to be topped up every few days. I have priced up having this done but as me and my partner have an 8 month old baby we couldn't justify spending any money on the car when we have been saving to buy a more modern family car.

This is how it has been described to me, it might be the hoses, haven't decided whether to go and view or not yet. Just trying to get some ammunition ready 

[Benrevs]

Clean up all the unions and joins, run the car on full lock both directions and then check said connections for leaks. Should give your answer matey. Ben

[frog]

Had an update from the owner

power steering pump is okay - its the rack thats leaking. You could try a breakers. I know GSf do them brand new - they are about £140. I've been getting by by topping it up every week and a bottle of fluid lasted me about 4 weeks.

The Rack?

[Dolly]

the rack is a right pain to replace, although not impossible. i did it when the engine was out and subframe was on the floor.. easy peasy. theres a seller on ebay who does new pipes for the rack end of things, £50 each.

[kittie]

When I was looking at racks they were a f**kton more money than that 

[frog]

Have priced up a rack at GSF and they are £150, trying to gewt the bloke to lower the price but think i might give it a miss

[frog]

Had another thought (2 in 1 night must be some sort of record  )
Would a Vento steering rack fit?
The reason i ask is because i am / will be scrapping 1 this week but if the racks are interchangable then it might be a money saving solution.
Think i remember reading somewhere thats its posible and because i have the complete car it should be easier to see whats what

[oakgreengolf]

Theres a chap on here who does recon racks  he might have some available? http://www.powersteeringstore.co.uk/