non starter/power steering problem?

[helicopter pat]

Hi
This morning my 53 MC failed to start. The engine does not turn over and the eng & oil pressure lights go off when key is in start position, tried a jump pack with same result. One thing I did notice was that the power steering pump starts to run when key ii turned to start position and continues to run until the ingnition is turned off, does not run with key removed as is the normal problem with starter motor running battery flat.
Is this the power steering fan causing the problem by drawing too much power and not leaving enough for the starter.
any help appriciated

Pat

[mab01uk]

Only the Cooper S has a power steering fan in the UK spec cars.

How old is your battery?

[helicopter pat]

Sorry, typo, the pump keeps running. The battery is a bosch S5 and is less than 2 years old. The car has run faultless right up to this morning and I do 100 miles a day to and from work.

[mab01uk]

See if anything here matches your problem:
Power Steering Pump replacement - Forums

[helicopter pat]

After trying a few things and reading up on the web I think the problem may be the EWS system. Thinking about it, it is logical that the power steering will switch on when the ignition switch is turned to the start position and stay on untill you turn the ignition off. I have checked all the fuses I think could have anything to do with the EWS except for the one buried beside the battery box, lights, washers etc all work. I think I am right that the key batteries have nothing to do with the EWS system as the plastic key does not have a battery. When turning the key to try and start the car with the lights on the lights do not dim meaning that the starter is not drawing any current. I think I will have to get Breakdown service out in the morning and get the car to dealer. If I am right and the EWS has craped out is it normally the small box in the left footwell that need changing and system recoded and does anybody have any idea of cost. I have seen the EWS box on EBay for about £25 so the dealer price should not be too much.
Sorry if I have gone on a bit but I hope someone can help and tell me if I am looking in the right direction
Thanks in anticipation