82'240GLT Rack & Pinion leaking badly from seals

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82'240GLT Rack & Pinion leaking badly from seals[ALL/1998] posted by Craig on
Friday, 21 November 1997, at 1:34 p.m.

When I turn the steering wheel all the way to the stop on either side, power steering fluid streams out of the seals under the dust boots on the steering rack(especially on passenger side). I hardly ever have to add fluid, unless I have been doing a lot of parralel parking or sharp turns. Other than that, the steering seems tight and smooth. Does anyone know if it's possible to replace just the seals, or am I going to have to bite the bullet and get myself a new steering rack? If they can be repaired, I would appreciate some info on how it is done. Doesn't seem to be covered in any of the basic Haynes or Chiltons.
Thanks, Craig

Re: 82'240GLT Rack & Pinion leaking badly from seals[ALL/1998] posted by Gilbert Kirk on
Saturday, 22 November 1997, at 8:45 a.m.

Craig - There's a reason that steering rack repair isn't covered. Because, like automatic transmission repair, it isn't worth the extreme headache involved for those who do not own the specialized tools used to do such jobs. Bite the bullet is your option here. In Virginia Beach, these power steering racks can run anywhere from $200 to $350 for aftermarket. I heard $700 quoted for a dealer rack, tho' haven't checked this out personally. The one on my 1980 GLE needs replacing. The reason I heard (from a dealership mechanic) for not repairing these yourself is that when you are putting the racks back into the steering case, you tear up the new seals you've just installed.

Re: 82'240GLT Rack & Pinion leaking badly from seals[ALL/1998] posted by craig on
Monday, 24 November 1997, at 7:38 p.m.

Thank's for the info, Gilbert. Not that it is good news, but I will look into a new rack sometime. As long as it is not leaking much at all unless I turn the wheel hard to parralel park or something, I don't see any emergency to replace it right away; unless anyone else knows some unforseen dangers of letting it go a while longer. Anyhow, thank's again, -Craig

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