New steering rack leak!
10-04-2004, 01:36 AM
#1
Three Wheelin'
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New steering rack leak!
While trying and failing to change my oil today (plug on new pan seems to be nicely frozen), I discovered a nice new leak from my steering rack. This not too long after having had the pump replaced. A quick clean of the area and a restart indicated leaks from both the pressure and return lines on the steering gear. I don't suppose there's some kind of gasket or something I can replace there...? The manual doesn't mention anything like that so...this wouldn't happen to be a problem with the rack itself, right...?
10-04-2004, 02:17 AM
#2
Rennlist Member
If it's leaking from the banjo fittings where the hoses attach to the rack, yes there are 4 copper seals. First, make sure all 4 seals are there. They look like washers between the fitting and the rack, and between the fitting and the bolt. If they are not all there, STOP! Get a set or two from one of the Big 3. Tightening the fittings without these can damage any/all of the related parts. Anyway, with seals in place, torque the fittings to 22 ft/lb. Clean up the area. If they still leak, replace them. Make sure no grit gets into the sealing area.
10-04-2004, 10:02 PM
#4
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The copper seals need to be replaced every time because they are annealed when new and they harden when tightened. I have heard that they can be annealed again, but I have no experience at this. They are cheap. Get a couple of sets while you're at it.
10-05-2004, 12:13 PM
#6
Burning Brakes
Flint,
Are you absolutely certain the leak is related to the pressure/return lines? Check for a leak around the steering input shaft before diving in. Just move the black dust cover back and check for fluid. If leaking, the fluid will tend to run down the gear housing and settle on the banjoed fittings -- giving the appearance of leaking fittings. I learned this the hard way.
If the banjoed fittings are the culprit here are a couple of tips:
- Loosen the nut that holds the lines secure in the bracket (which is mounted near the brake master). You will find that getting the hollow bolt "started" upon re-installation make take patience and you will need some slack to manipulate the line(s).
- Ensure that the lines do not rotate when torquing the bolts.
- Remove the power steering belt from the pully. When refilling the reservoir, rotate the pully by hand to remove the majority of the air. Install belt.
- Ensure wheels are off the ground and turn from lock to lock to force the remainder of the air out.
Are you absolutely certain the leak is related to the pressure/return lines? Check for a leak around the steering input shaft before diving in. Just move the black dust cover back and check for fluid. If leaking, the fluid will tend to run down the gear housing and settle on the banjoed fittings -- giving the appearance of leaking fittings. I learned this the hard way.
If the banjoed fittings are the culprit here are a couple of tips:
- Loosen the nut that holds the lines secure in the bracket (which is mounted near the brake master). You will find that getting the hollow bolt "started" upon re-installation make take patience and you will need some slack to manipulate the line(s).
- Ensure that the lines do not rotate when torquing the bolts.
- Remove the power steering belt from the pully. When refilling the reservoir, rotate the pully by hand to remove the majority of the air. Install belt.
- Ensure wheels are off the ground and turn from lock to lock to force the remainder of the air out.
