power steering

[Mike Langlois]

I am giving the 2002 V70 X/C a new alternator and A/C compressor, so I thought I would replace the original power steering pump also. My question is, should I replace the high pressure power steering hose to the tune of $162.00, also. Car has 178,000 miles and has been well loved prior to my ownership. I see no issues with the current hose and am wondering if and when they fail.

[oragex]

The high pressure hose is a pain to remove from the engine bay, not to mention it is surely stuck at the rack. I would leave it there. On 2001-2003 these fail at some point along the rack where they rust badly. However, looks like you live in CA so rust shouldn't be a problem - I would just spray it once in a while with some good paint. May as well look at the top of the rack while there: Volvo put a plastic cover to prevent water from accumulating where the shaft goes inside the rack - this small black plastic cover melts and disintegrates. Water then gets in there, the shaft starts rusting, and can damage the upper rack seal causing it to leak. Not much you can do but good to have a look

[Mike Langlois]

Thanks for the wisdom. Car appears to have been garaged and well loved prior to my acquiring it; the AWD even works perfectly. I will check the areas noted and restore as necessary.