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Hi I am comparitively new to this forum.I have a MX3 1600 M reg. Unfortunately the previous owners didn't take much car of it but I have managed to sort a few things out and it drives pretty well.
However there are a couple of things that need doing.

One is that when you first start it if you turn the steering too sharply the engine dies and cuts out.Its fine once warmed up however.
The other problem is that the steering creaks when you turn the steering in any direction. Not the shafts knocking just a creaking sort of noise. Does feel a little heavy when I think of it.My own diagnoses is that it needs a new power steering pump and a steering rack.Can anyone advise on this? Also how difficult is a steering rack to do? I have worked on many cars but I am more of a DIY fixer than a mechanic and any advice appreciated.

It is not uncommon for a car’s engine to stall when the steering is turned sharply against the stop. The difficultly of the steering is a bigger issue. I would start with the PS pump because it’s fairly easy to replace. Be sure to purge the air properly from the system after installation. A simple google search will explain that process...it’s pretty straight forward.

There are issues with the power steering racks leaking so it’s possible that you’re losing fluid or pressure from your rack but I think it’s unlikely. If the pump doesn’t solve your problem you could try this, but I would be surprised if this is the cause. The rack can be removed with the engine and front subframe in place...but it will be a very tight fit for hands and tools. Again you must purge the system and this time an alignment will be required.

Often the strut mounts creak when they get old. They do hold all of the front weight of the car, after all.

Another thought...before you start replacing stuff make sure that there isn't a bunch of air in the system.