[Chris_H]

After months and months (probably 8 since it was last started and a almost 2 years since it was last driven) the LX fired up today. Took about 2 minutes of off and on cranking for it to finally fire up. I let it run for about 2 minutes and here is what I noticed:

1.) Bought a brand new belt yesterday. There is belt dust EVERYWHERE now. Is that normal on a new belt? I had a belt shredding problem prior to the car not being driven anymore. I took a look and all the pullies look like they are aligned with each other, belt is tight but not overly tight. Also, the belt felt pretty hot after letting the car run for the 2 minutes. Hot enough to where it started to burn my fingers.

2.) The power steering pump sounds like it is starting to squal when the rpm's are brought up. Since I am running an 8" crank pulley (single belt set up) do I need a larger pulley for the PS? I have yet to really drive the car since I installed the 8" because of clearance issues I have always had with it. If the pump is going bad, any chances this could be causing the belt problem?

3.) Instead of dealing with the PS pump, do I HAVE to run a manual rack to go without power steering, or will the stock unit work without the PS pump?

Just trying to look at options here. Any input from you guys is greatly appreciated!