Replacement of leaking power steering pump, pressure hose and rack

[plantchick]

Turns out the 'minor' oil leak I was told of before I purchased my girl isn't so minor after all; the power steering pressure hose has a hole in it and the steering pump and rack are both leaking. The boots are intact, but full of fluid.

All of the above were easy for me to see when she was on the hoist today, even with limited mechanical knowledge.

I talked it over with the CV/Steering specialist guy who said the most urgent was the pressure hose and pump, but that the rack would probably be ok for six months or so, as long as I checked the fluid every few weeks and kept it topped up.

I know it would be cheaper in the long run to get it all done at once, but given that I've just bought her (two weeks) and had some work done, it'll be a tough ask.

I'd appreciate your opinions on what, if any, problems I might cause if I delay doing the rack for a few months.

This might sound strange, but I haven't noticed any real problems with the steering, other than finding it heavier than I expected from a sports tourer. That said, I don't have much to compare it to - my previous (and only) car was an '82 Benz who's steering was even heavier.

There's a slight noise on full turn, that I associated as the pump working on a heavier load. Other than that, no sqeaking, squealing, shuddering or jerking.

Hope I've given enough/the right information.

Thanks,

Tania.