Sages,

So I'm replacing the passenger side steering rack bellow/boot today and when I take it off out pours about 1/2 cup of power steering fluid.

So my question is this. Is this normal, or is there an indication of a bigger issue with the rack?

Thanks in advance,

Matt

I did a little more digging via Google:

If the leak is not pouring PS fluid on your driveway, try a bottle of Lucas Leak stop. That might cure it and cannot hurt.

I also found a seal repair kit:

http://pskits.com/catalog/rackkitss70v709800smiunit-p-1722.html?osCsid=0acd5bc9089f3ca2b352df9c67882b7e

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Keeping it running is better than buying new

Klausc,

Sorry so long in responding back to you.

I finally got the inner-tie rod off tonight and well, it does not seem to be leaking to bad, but I haven't driven it in some time.

My plan is this:

1. Try to replace the seal if at all possible, or

2. If I can't maybe I'll try the leak fix next. If that doesn't fix it then...

3. Replace the rack.

Thanks,

Matt

I am not a sage, but that is NOT normal. You have a leaking O ring which will need to be replaced, at the least.
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Keeping it running is better than buying new

Klausc,

Did a little more research after my initial post to you last night.

Seems I have two options. Repair what I have or replace the rack.

Seeing that the rack is seeping around the shaft where the steering column comes into the rack believe I will opt for the replacement option.

Matt

My 1998 weeped at the steering shaft input, but just enough to get it dirty and not drip down. Solution: Never hold the steering wheel in the hard right or left position when the pump is at max pressure. That worked for over 60K miles.

Replacing the rack is not a trivial job. Especially with nothing but hand tools and jack stands. A lift is almost required.

I also replaced the PS fluid with Mobil 1 ATF.
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Keeping it running is better than buying new

FWIW - Mobil ATF stopped a smaller leak in my 855's rack that was leaking on the ground. I used the turkey baster method to replace the existing PS fluid over the course of 3-4 days. Leak dried up in about a month.

Klausc,

Where is the O-ring located and how hard is this to replace?

Thoughts?

Thanks,

Matt