Cut open ps reservoir?

I have to replace my rack and pinion in my 99. Already replaced the ps pump but it's grinding again.

I cleaned the reservoir best I could, but I've got two issues. The rack is leaking and the reservoir has so much gunk in it. What would be the harm in using a band saw to cut the reservoir in half to clean, then welding it back together?

 

I do have a slow leak on both sides of my rack, on the boots. What I'm wondering is if the pump is starving for fluid because of all the crap in the res. I've probably screwed this new pump.<br/>

 

Im at a loss of words in regards to cutting and welding.

But really, just keep flushing the system. Also the leaking rack is going to allow more contaminants in.

 

I don't know why it's such a bad idea. A new one is $300. And have you seen how much stuff is on the screen? I cleaned it for days, flushing and suctioning... Still there was a lot left.

 

Im thinking the introduction of debris, quality of the welds. Its pretty thin metal but if you've got that kind of welding ability, have at it.

What i would do is remove it and let it soak in some sort of solvent and then clean the shit out of it.

 

I can weld it. I've done sheet metal body fab. The reservoir is much thicker than that.

You just can't get all the stuff out with the way the mouth is designed.

I'm curious as to why my new pump is now whining. I guess leaks allowing more contaminants in is a concern.

 

Yeah that really sucks that the new pump whines. Maybe it has a warranty?

 

Yeah I'm checking on that tomorrow. Its a refurb from Toyota parts sales in Arizona.

 

Hopefully its just defective and noting is much else. I guess it could have been from the system having a lot of contamination.
Good luck man.

 

What engine do you have? Removing the resi from a 3.4 isn't that hard. I believe it's two 12mm bolts. That's what I did to clean it out. Hell, throw the thing into a bucket of carb cleaner if your heart desires.

http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/1st-gen-tacomas/360889-removing-power-steering-reservoir.html

 

I have the 3.4. And yeah I did remove it entirely.

 

I've seen a thread where someone pried off the top lid somehow. Not sure how they did it. Try searching