I had to remove the pump entirely for overhaul, yet still need to drive it. am i screwing something up by driving it like this for a few days?

what car? If its a new one you might trigger some sensor or something. The older cars Im sure it wont mind, just be careful driving, especialy in one of these big heavy cars (unless its a 190)

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1981 300SD 512k OM603

sorry, yeah older 82 300d

You won't harm anything. Just be sure to ziptie some plastic bags over the hose ends to catch the fluid that will come out when you turn the wheel.

Be safe, steering will be far more difficult at low speeds.

They really aren't that bad in a benzo. The power assist is moderate so doing without the power is nothing like an american car or my truck, which you about cannot move the wheels at all with the motor off.

Tom W

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[SIGPIC] Diesel loving autocrossing grandpa Architect. 08 Dodge 3/4 ton with Cummins & six speed; I have had about 35 benzes. I have a 39 Studebaker Coupe Express pickup in which I have had installed a 617 turbo and a five speed manual.[SIGPIC]

..I also have a 427 Cobra replica with an aluminum chassis.