94 Q45t Power Steering Issue

[girlie girl]

94 Q45t

I had an engine swap with an earlier engine. Most of the issues have been resolved after a few corrections were made, except for the power steering. After I test drove it the first time, the power steering went out. I don’t want this to happen again. I think I read somewhere that it might be a pulley size issue (older engine/newer ps pump) that is causing the system to over pressurize and causing the leak, I don’t remember. Is that possible? If yes, how can I correct this problem?

Also…these power steering lines are very expensive from the dealership and they seem to be a dealer only part. Does anyone know of a more economical replacement options?

Any positive advice would be appreciated…thanks guys!

[Q45denver]

If you still have the old pump from the original engine you could swap it over. The hoses do tend to leak with enough miles. Make sure all the fittings are tight. You could get the hose part replaced at a machine/speed shop using the old fittings for a fraction of what new ones would cost.

[Q45tech]

Be careful swapping an older engine than came with the car is a EPA no, no -- actually could be considered a felony. Not a problem putting a 90-93 in a 93, but the emissions from a 94-95 are lower than the earlier design.

You can always go newer but never backwards emission wise.

[irax]

just like the LS400 of any year the Q45(G50 spicificly) P/S lines need to be replaced every 6 years or so..
Modified by irax at 8:19 PM 4/7/2006

[girlie girl]

Thank you for the replies. Can anyone verify whether or not the pulley sizes are any different? Because if not then I won't bother to swap the pump and just assume the hoses were frail to begin with.

[elwesso]

The PS pump is the same from 90-96... the only difference in the PS pump was if the car had active/HICAS.

[96Qowner]

How did that botched engine swap turn out with your mechanic? Sounds like he made it right, somehow. Sure hope it was on his own time.