Hi Metallo,

How the pulley could be slightly misaligned? What happened was that most mechanic / diy'ers didn't know that they have to loosen the 13mm bolt at the pump's pivot (this is hidden way below the pulley) and also the 12mm bolt at the adjuster's pivot (this also hidden behind water pump pulley) when replacing / adjusting the belt. Then tighten them back afterwards.

Most of them just meddle with the adjuster's lock nut and long bolt.

Over the years both pivots may have gone worn unnecessarily and cause pulley misalignment. You'd have to check which of what happened. You might have to replace the pivot bolts, pump mounting brackets and/or adjuster bracket to correct this. Putting shims may be helpful but damage is already there.

About the water pump just replace with new. You won't find any aftermarket sleeve bearings for it.

About the steering pump if its not leaking fluid just continue to use it albeit the increased bearing noise. Search for rebuilt ones from eBay or low-mileage ones from Pick n Pull yards.

Amarin.