Other things to do while replacing the rack/pinion

[Q45-pj]

I had a small power steering leak for the past few weeks and thought I'd use some lucas power steering stop leak. Needless to say a few days have. Past and I'm now without power steering. I found a rack on eBay by an American company that remanufactures them for $250 w/o the sensor. But I was told I can just "swap the solenoid" from my current unit. Hopefully you guys wil chime in on that.
What I wanted to know was what else should I have done while get the rack replaced. It's a 2k a/e a lovely one at that. But the prev owner didn't do such a good job. With 195k I wanted to change the water pump, knock sensors, alternator, and starter (initial startup is great. If I shut the car off and come back it take about 5-6 seconds to start. Lots of wherr whrr whrr etc..) almost like a cold start but even when it's warm. I was quoted $1760 for the complete strut assembly. So money is a bit of an issue. I have to get the power steering done but xi want to know what I have to do and what I can leave for a little later. I was hoping to take the car on a road trip this summer.
Ps: I'm in nyc and totally looking for a job. If any of you guys no of any openings please let me know.

[dnudelman]

I've gotten my racks from Jorgen. Google them. I replaced this fall my q45 rack. The R&R was about $300 at an independent shop. I also replaced the bushings with poly bushings from Z32. Use the search button and read the threads. New tie rod ends also. Got a good deal on Raybestos professional grade, not the cheap ones.