Repair/refill or just replace rack & pinion?

[usocazy]

Hi folks - my rack & pinion has a minor seepage, I wouldn't even call it a leak as it doesn't drip off the R&S and pool on the ground.

I have included a couple of pictures - the stain you see is the same stain that has been there for a over 2 years. It doesn't get any worse and there is no problem with steering control or responsiveness. Of course a mechanic wanted over $1500 parts/labor to replace it!!!

Questions:

1. Is there a way to refill the R&P with fluid? If so, how & what type fluid. Any idea what size O-ring (if any) would be necessary to stop the leak from occurring again?

2. Should I just replace (only about a $125 part)? Don't know if I want to jack around with unnecessary labor if I can avoid it.

Thanks for your help!
Jeff

 

[BigSloth]

the steering rack is not a sealed system, it uses pressurized fluid from the power steering pump to assist in steering effort. That leak is an indication of internal leakage, it's not something you can repair. Steering racks are a common problem in these trucks, and replacement is not that hard. You will need an alignment after

 

[zoomin0074]

I recently replaced my rack with an A1-cardone re-manufactured unit.. I have heard that they have issues after a little time and that I should have gotten a factory unit.. So far no problems and install was fairly easy.