Thread: Electric power steering pump

Does anyone have any insight on the pros and cons on having electrical PS pump?

eBay Motors: 07 NISSAN SENTRA ELECTRIC POWER STEERING MOTOR (item 260314018528 end time May-09-09 13:50:34 PDT)

The S2000 seems to do all right with one.

Edit: I knew I'd get that wrong. I guess the S2k uses an electric rack assist motor.
Many cars using them have been blasted by automotive journalists for ruining the steering experience.

Hmm I didnt know the new sentras had an electrical PS pump.

Pros, if you run an electrical water pump youll only run one belt and you will still have power steering. Less parasitic drag on the engine. Free up a marginal amount of hp/tq. Better throttle response (good for heel and toeing). You can have power steering with the engine off, although I dont know what good that will do. You can mount it where ever you like for better weight distribution.

Cons, getting it all set up. I really cant see cons to electric power steering. Maybe the amps the pump uses. If the pump fails you can still drive the car unlike an electric water pump.

I wondered about this because I read a thread here where someone moved the alternator to the power steering bracket and is putting up with standard steering and using only one belt (I think electric water pump is bad news) I will have to look into the amp draw...

good info Vex

Has anyone ran across the thread with this alternator mod? ive been looking for a while and cant find it again...

Most new cars don't have an electric pump, they use a rack driven by an electric motor (I know the S2k and Cobalt do). The S2k's motor unit is built into the rack, while the cobalt's motor is in the column. They have a VERY high failure rate, especially with the earlier production year cars. The only car I've ever personally seen with an actual electric PS pump is the 2nd Gen Toyota MR2.

Andreas Miko is one of the only people ive seen with an alternator to the rear of the engine.

I will have to ask around on their forums to see what went out, thanks bhowle

Anyone else with more knowledge?

That sentra piece appears to be a column/steering shaft mounted motor. I'd venture to say swapping in an S2k rack would be an easier option, though you might have to play mix and match with some tie rod ends to get a good fit.

Yea, Thats a power assist that runs off the steering shaft ... would be a pain to try and get that working in an older Sentra ....

didn't the older rx7's have a power steering pump system that shut off after a certain speed or disengaged.