Steering Column Repair: Steering Problems, rack pinion, step daughter

Question
My step-daughter sent an e/mail telling my husband & I that everytime she tries to turn a certain way her (Dodge-older model) not sure which----Whatever---it makes a loud noise and tries to turn in the opposite direction. Dodge told her it's the rack,pin & PUMP (which I never heard of in steering) and that it's gonna cost $1800 to fix. Does this sound excessive to you? Upon looking up parts, the whole rack & pinion unit sells for $291.45. And what could this pump be? Just VERY curious.  Thnx

Answer
Hello hun
this is a power steraling pump they are talking about . it is a lot of mone the dealer wants . tell them to go to a shop . they will pay half of that . it will be a lot cheaper . good luck to u all and u have a pretty name ps if i can help further let me know pete