Volvo Repair: 1991 940T Power Steering, volvo saab, steering knuckle

Question
I have subject auto (1991, 940T)in exceptional condition with only 67000 miles on it. It resides in my garage when not on the road. It is regularly serviced and has not been in an accident. Lately it seems that the steering is feeling heavier than usual. I recently had the steering fluid changed out and the belts tightened with little to no change. The local Volvo/Saab Servicing agent says the "Rack" needs changing out. Is there someway to check that the Pump is putting out sufficiently? What could be checked before I find that they'll replacing one thing after another until they restore the steering to what I had in the past meanwhile having a bill that's more than the auto is worth? Thanking you in advance for your prompt response.  

Answer
well your question is a good one, but traditionally the rack is the culprit. you can do line pressure check on the ps pump. but it is almost never done. in this case i would abdicate changing the ps rack, the only other thing that might cause this is a seizing up lower steering knuckle. they can check that before removing the p.s. rack