Need some guidance.

Had the inner and outer tie rods replaced on v70R 98.

Mechanic tells me that the rack is leaking. Says couldn't tell until the inner tie rod were done.

Car had no puddles on the ground prior. Mechanic also said that prior owner had put ATF for the power steering fluid. Son recently bought the car.


Questions:

First, I searched the forums and it seems that ATF is ok for a 98. Is my research Correct?

Second, when something leaks it would seem that puddles would be the result. How could a rack leak and not result in puddles.

Third, Is it easy to damage the seals when replacing the inner tie rods. Could the mechanic did Boo Booed and created the situation?

Lastly, nothing to do with the rack but where is the evap J hose on this car? Some say its driver side front, some say its near the gas filter near the rear.

Thanks Madness.

You can also use Seafoam ATF, or other tranny seal additivies, if you think it is a small seal that is leaking. My 1998 weeped fluid when I first bought it. Flushed the system with DEX and never had another problem.

Obviously, when the rack leaks enough to drip on the floor, that is a different problem. Also, make it a habit to relax the steering wheel after turning it to lock in one direction, no need to have the pump work real hard and create more pressure.

Klaus
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My advice is free, so you got what you paid for...

Check your owner's manual first, but I changed the PS fluid in my 850 to Mobil 1 ATF (synthetic). Rack used to leak, hasn't leaked in almost a year! ATF is the recommended fluid in 850's.