Rack and Pinion Question
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Joined: May 2011
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From: Wenatchee WA
Rack and Pinion Question
Just pulled my rack from my 85' to replace a bent inner tie rod and noticed both boots had power steering fluid in them. So are my seals shot or is this normal? Time for a replacement rack and pinion assembly???
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Joined: Apr 2011
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That side has the gear teeth slide thru a seal thats not able to be completely round so it has a positive seal against the shaft. There is little or no actual oil or pressure in the opposite side, so if that is very wet it is a sign that the rack is leaking internally.
Its not critical unless its leaking past the outside set of seals and filling the boots. The crud and dirt thats get on the outter seals can eat them away pretty fast, but the boots keep the seals clean as long as they are clamped on tight and have no rips or tears.
BUT.......
being a PITA and because its that age and mostly because its already on the floor, rebuild it. The kits are cheap, even rebuild exchanges are cheap...around $200.
Its a good time to add new tie rod ends, and freshen up the steering system.Maybe hoses too..
