Rack & Pinion Steering Problem

[Best Sho]

When I turn left / right in slow speed like in parking lot, backing up, etc. I hear like a groaning noise. Coming from the underneath the engine area right in the middle.

Now I did a search and found a few members with same or similiar scenerio. Scott story was interesting. I don't have a vibration noise yet!
And power steering is dirty.
I'm guessing I'm at the start of this going.

I agree with Scott on on shop manual / procedure
So Helms, Chilton, Haynes who has the BEST one for this procedure?
Do it yourself of have garage?
So when it completely goes you lose ALL control of steering or what?
Rough guess how long before it would go?

Thanks Mike

 

[sdpatt]

The SHO's power steering system has a problem with a nuisance resonance that causes the groaning noise. Dirty power steering fluid can aggravate the condition, but even a new rack may not cure the groaning noise.

 

[Best Sho]

Ok
What are some signs that the rack is going?
And what to do about the fluid. Replace it and pump or just live with it or ?????

Reading through the threads I see that there a shop manual on cd. Does anyone know how to obtain a copy of it? And what shop manual is it based on?

Thanks, Mike