Yes, that is correct - you'll need to replace any worn components before getting the wheel alignment. This is because the wheel alignment cannot be maintained with any worn suspension components - such as ball joints. The alignment settings will merely change as the worn components allow the tires to change position; i.e. to change alignment.

hi 8, i think video is a much easier way to learn how to replace it: http://www.youtube.com/watch

greetings

WIthout seeing it in person, may take on it would be you bent a tie rod which is connected to your steering. I dont know obviously if it reached up to the rack itself.

I cant see the damage so i cant comment on what should be done, best i can do is narrow things for ya.

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Several possibilities; leaking steering pump, leaking steering pressure hose, leaking steering return hose, leaking steering rack assembly. First step - is to determine which component may be leaking. Add fluid to the system, wipe off and clean up the possible leak points; end of the hoses, along the steering pump hose connections - to get a clear view of the fresh leak. Next, start the engine and observe for any leaking at those points in particular.
Try the 'How-To-Guides' feature on this website to get an idea of the replacement steps. Try the many on-line auto parts sources, such as; www.RockAuto.com or www.autopartswarehouse.com for the replacement parts.

I went ahead and replaced it today and it was not that bad. I pulled the car up on ramps. I removed the water resovoir to make it easier to get to the flange and nut that was holding the hose on the side of the motor. after that I unclipped the clip that was holding the hose underneath. I pulled the hose through the bottom with someone helping guide it from the top. After the old hose was removed I had someone guide the hose from the top while I pulled from the bottom went on with ease.

When turning your steering wheel you should be able to get 1600-2000psi out of your PS pump. You can check for pressure reading to verify but am almost certain the pump is your problem.
The belt MUST have the correct tension in it for it to work properly. In virtually all modern cars, belt tension is set with a spring loaded pulley that should always maintain the correct tension. You should check out the belt tensioner too. If all these check out properly, then the power steering pump is the next most likely culprit. Finally, the power steering rack - the thing that couples the hydraulic pressure from the power-steering pump into the steering mechanism - may need replacement or rebuilding.