Power steering leak

Dec 04, 2004 1 Replies

I have a 1985 Vanagon Westy with a leak in its power steering system. It seems to be from the boots that go out of the rack- there is one on either side, and the tie rods come out of them. Both are leaking, but the passenger side is worse. I don't think there should be any fluid ih these boots, just some sort of grease, right? I'm guessing that fluid is leaking from somewhre in the steering rack into these boots. I haven't had a chance to check the Bentley or Haynes manuals yet, but had a chance to post this before I finish my travels for the day. It has leaked about a pint in under 40 miles.



Any suggestions or guesses about the cause or solution? How about getting parts or a new (used) rack if I need one? How much of a job is it to replace the rack? I have a 1987 Vanagon that I was going to sell whole, but maybe I could take off the ps rack from that.



I would imagine that a leak as bad as mine would not respond to any power steering stop leak.



Suggestions are appreciated. Thanks, Ed Duntz


DON'T GO USED! go with a new or factory rebuilt rack. It's an easy repair to do for the DIYer.

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