I would really appreciate some feedback on this...

I just got off the phone with my mechanic. $870.00 (includes labor) to replace a worn out steering rack, re-align wheels, and replace the upper strut top. He is a very honest guy, but I KNOW i can get a better price on the rack at JorgenAuto.com (like $265) - does anyone know if this job is a possible DIY? I have moderate mechanical skills and decent tools, but obviously no lift. What about the upper strut top replacement?

thanks!!
scott k.

96 850T wagon

By "worn out" do you mean the gear rack is worn and loose or is it leaking from the seals. If it's just leaking a little try the Lucas additive. If the gears are worn you'll need a new rack. Can't remember seeing any steering rack problems posted here in a long time but the strut bushings do go bad routinely on the 850's. If you replace the bushing(s) you'll need a spring compressor and an alignment will be needed afterwards.

If by "upper strut top" he means the upper strut mount (and perhaps even the spring seat) then I would say go for it yourself. I did the strut job with a $26 jack/stand special from Advanced Auto and a 126 piece Craftsman wratchet set. And a shop light.

I wouldn't know how difficult it would be to do the steering rack, but mine was leaking over a year ago and the dealer in Syracuse quoted me at $900 to do the whole job. In the meantime, they said, just check the power steering fluid level often and refill it as necessary. I instead bought a bottle of that "Lucas" power steering sealer lubricant stuff, filled it up a few times as it worked its way in, and the fluid has been at the same level for about a year now (through 90+ degree and -10 degree weather). I consider it fixed.

i dont know, but the rack might be a real pig to do given its location....