Yes, you can operate without the pump.

Simply remove the drive belt on the pump or cut it. Leave the pump in
place to keep dirt, debris, and water out of the system until you have
the replacement pump in hand and/or make the necessary fluid line
repairs. Once repairs are made, fill the fluid reservoir, start the
engine, and then rotate the steering to the locks both ways several
times. This will bleed air from the system. Be sure to add sufficient
fluid after cycling the steering a few times. Always use Dextron II,
III, or IV ATF in the system. NEVER EVER use "Power Steering Fluid" as
sold by your FLAPS. It is definitely the wrong stuff and will damage the
seals in the PS rack and in the pump.

John

John Rodgers
Clayartist and Moldmaker
88'GL VW Bus Driver
Chelsea, AL
Http://www.moldhaus.com

Andrew Philbrick wrote:
> Hello Volks,
>
> My '86 westy (original wbx) sprung a leak of power steering fluid last
> night.  The leak is coming from the lines near the nose of the tranny.
>
> My question is - Can I take the belt off of the PS pump and still drive the
> van without risk of damage to the pump or the steering rack up front?  Can I
> drive it short term with the pump off until parts arrive?  The only reason I
> ask is because our Beetle being a bit under-the-weather as well and we are
> essentially stuck without a car.
>
> Ideally, I do not want to damage the Vanagon at all but I also need a mode
> of transport in the next few days.
>
> Andrew
>
>
>