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Steering Rack Replacement V70-XC70 2002

My sons's 2002 V70 wagon (base, 235K miles) needs steering rack replaced (per my mechanic). He estimates total job (parts + labor) to be ~ $1300. Is this reasonable?

Thanks.

Bernie








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    Steering Rack Replacement V70-XC70 2002

    Several years ago I bought a salvage rack from erie vovo. I paid $138 including shipping and got a local repair shop to install it for $250. The labor price was very cheap, I admit, and they did a less than perfect job. The leak was gone and the rack was perfect, but the car had a vibration. I took it to another mechanic just to check things were tight, and found the problem. Sloppy work, one of the cradle bolts was not torqued. That did the job and the car's been fine since then.

    Two things:

    1. Prior to buying the salvage rack I bought a rebuild from Detroit Axle. It leaked and I had I hard time getting my money back. They actually charged a restocking fee on the leaking rack I had for a week. Avoid these guys, and I guess, rebuilt racks. I wouldn't go with a rebuild unless the original manufacturer did it. Even then you're relying on a warranty, so better off with a salvage yard that offers a warranty on parts (like erie vovo). I wouldn't be surprised if the new Volvo rack is a rebuild (see if there is a core charge).

    2. Get an alignment when you're done. And get a magnafilter for the fluid line or place a large magnet in the reservoir to catch filings before they ruin the fluid.

    Just my opinion....based on my experience.
    --
    I'm stuck on Volvo and Volvo's stuck on me....when it comes to FWD I always listen to the "Oracle of Minnesota'








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    Steering Rack Replacement V70-XC70 2002

    How bad is the leak? Perhaps flushing the PS fluid will do the trick? Does your son turn the wheel to lock and hold it there while parking (this generates the most pressure)?

    Is the leak in the rack or just one of the PS lines?
    --
    Keeping it running is better than buying new








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      Steering Rack Replacement V70-XC70 2002

      Hi Klaus - yes the leak is definitely worse when you're not moving and the steering wheel is turned. At that point it must be leaking onto the exhaust (?), because smoke will come up from that area. The leak is enough to where fluid needs to be added every 50 miles of regular driving (!). 'Not sure where the leak is ... I haven't climbed under the car (not sure I can or want to).

      Thanks.

      Bernie








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        Steering Rack Replacement V70-XC70 2002

        If it is leaking that much, a flush won't help. The question becomes, it the rack itself or a hose that is leaking. Neither is fun to fix, but replacing a hose is much cheaper than replacing the entire rack.

        Can you get a second opinion? One that will tell you where the leak is coming from?
        --
        Keeping it running is better than buying new








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          Steering Rack Replacement V70-XC70 2002


          Missed the topping up every 50 miles part!

          Agreed, find the source of the leak and get a second opinion before dropping that kind of coin. With luck maybe it is just the low pressure hose...








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            Steering Rack Replacement V70-XC70 2002

            FWIW...I sourced a rebuilt OEM unit at carsteering.com...was about


































































            FWIW...when rack went on my '98 S70, sourced a rebuilt OEM unit for $300 or so at carsteering.com...totally satisfied with them...my local indy installed for a couple hours of labor...$1300??/...yowza..


























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        Steering Rack Replacement V70-XC70 2002

        Sounds like it could be a seal leak since it is leaking on the exhaust. If so, a flush and a fluid replacement could save the rack. I'd advise taking a look. If it is leaking in the area where the inner tie rod attaches to the rack then it is the seal.

        Suggest following Klaus' advice. Check the PS hoses first. Once saw a 2003 V70 leaking through the low pressure hose where it attaches to the PS reservoir. Very easy fix!







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