1985 Mazda 929 Power Steering Failure

[Alan1985-929]

Hi there,

My 1985 Mazda 929 has had problems with the power steering system for some time now, its never really been that much of an issue, but soon after my local mechanic told me that there was air in the system and did a 'conditioner' flush it has started leaking and gone down hill from there over time, for a while I was just filling the system back up with power steering fluid, and the pump would work most of the time, however now the pump hardly works even with fluid in there.

Some have told me that its ok to drive without the power steering system operational however I wanted to get some 'expert' opinions. I would happily just keep driving it without power steering indefinitely as opposed to paying the money ive been quoted to get it fixed (over $1000) by my local mechanic. Some say it puts strain on the rack and other components to drive without power steering assistance and that can damage it, others told me itll be fine but just build more muscles haha, which is true?

Thanks in advance,

Alan