Big fan. 2002 toyota echo, manual , 210000 km. Curb hit driver's side underside steering pinning pushing it upward. Changed the control arm, the subframe & power steering unit. Did the wheel aligment. Still now the steering is very light & has no road feel. If I take out the power steering belt, making it a manual steering, will it damage the steering hydraulic unit. The dealership told me eventually the steering pump will leak from inactivity. The fluid will leak on to the rack & pinion. Is that true & is it not advisable to take out the steering belt? Pls answer & also any other tips to make the steering feel more solid, heavier & has more road feel just like before the curb hit. Thanks.
It will work fine without the power steering belt for a long time. But I advise you to leave it on. It will likely get harder to turn with age and you will get used to it.