Will power steering work without pressure sensor?

I just broke the pump-side connector of my power steering pressure sensor and would prefer to order one from RockAuto for $20 than pay a local dealership 50 to get it tomorrow.

My question is, if this sensor is offline temporarily, will the power steering still work? I am really just curious because I have driven the truck before with the power steering disconnected and it was alright.

 

Start the engine and check the power steering. It should work just fine.

 

It will probably work ok.
I believe the switch is to help “bump up idle” under certain turning situations.
If anything, you might find it a bit harder turn the wheel at low speeds.

I’m sure @Dm93 knows how it works.

 

Correct, it's only function is to signal the ECM to increase the idle speed to compensate for the load of the power steering when turning at low speeds.

 

If the sensor is unplugged (say to put in a Howe pump) will it trigger an issue to the ECU?

 

No it won't generate any fault codes, you just won't get the idle boost when turning the wheel at slow speeds.

 

Excellent! Appreciate your input!.