Steering rack leak? 92 LSL

#1 02-24-2002, 06:34 AM

My steering rack and lines are completely wet with fluid. Where do I start to look for leaks?
I haven't driven the car much (still fixing things since I bought it),
so I don't know how fast the power steering fluid level goes down.
It doesn't look like fun to change the rack and of course it is expensive to buy a new one.
Any help is greatly appreciated!

Beav · #2 02-24-2002, 09:02 AM

Check to make sure that it isn't your tranny cooler lines leaking on top of the steering, it was a common item on '92s. The factory has a TSB and a hose kit to repair.

Beav

#3 02-27-2002, 02:20 PM

If you need a replacement rack, I had a second hand rack put in a couple of weeks ago. I tried myself - took 5 hours to dismantle and put back together, as I couldn't get the rack out. My local garage did the job - had to drop the subframe to get the valve block clear. Took them 4 hours.

gl1674 · #4 02-27-2002, 10:29 PM

Check the hoses - the return line tends to leak. Also you may have leakage from the engine cam covers - make sure the
liquid is ATF (reddish in color and smells like ATF)

The steering rack can be removed without removing the subframe.
I would not recommend doing it yourself though. The toughest part is to disconnect tie rods - you need a proper tool and a high quality one.