Power steering leak

[FATASS]

Hi All

Got a leak in my power steering system, vy v6. Looks like its coming from the rack because the passenger side boot has oil on it. Not losing a great deal of fluid but its definately noticable in the steering at low revs & pump is making whirring noise. There is definately air being sucked into the system as the oil in the reservoir convulses when the car is running.

Ive read there are additives that can fix small leaks, eg the lucas power steering conditioner fluid.

Would it be worth trying something like this? Or am I better off going ahead and replacing the rack? If I continue to drive the car am I going to destroy anything else? Will the pump survive?

Is it possible to buy a seal kit for the rack? Ive only ever seen a kit for the pump.

Anyone had the same issue? advice would be appreciated

cheers

[acarmody]

Replace the rack and get pump checked at the same time.

[Calaber]

Hi All

Got a leak in my power steering system, vy v6. Looks like its coming from the rack because the passenger side boot has oil on it. Not losing a great deal of fluid but its definately noticable in the steering at low revs & pump is making whirring noise. There is definately air being sucked into the system as the oil in the reservoir convulses when the car is running.

Ive read there are additives that can fix small leaks, eg the lucas power steering conditioner fluid.

Would it be worth trying something like this? Or am I better off going ahead and replacing the rack? If I continue to drive the car am I going to destroy anything else? Will the pump survive?

Is it possible to buy a seal kit for the rack? Ive only ever seen a kit for the pump.

Anyone had the same issue? advice would be appreciated

cheers

Those additives are only a short term, emergency solution. They rely on ingredients which swell the worn seals to enable them to do their job better, but this is not a long term fix at all. Rack leaks mean the whole rack is at the end of its normal life and needs overhaul or replacement. There are numerous small parts, such as rack bushes, which will also be worn and allow excessive lateral movement of the rack, which only exacerbates the leak, so get a reconditioned rack and fix the problem for good.

[jacko2]

What should you look at paying to get the rack supplied and fitted? only reason i ask is mine also has a slow leak but my mechanic said its ok for now, i would just like to know what i will be up for when it starts to leak more,

[acarmody]

For my VX V6 I got quoted $500 for supply and fit a reco rack and a wheel alignment. But things are usually cheaper down south.

[FATASS]

Thanks guys, will let you know price when I get a quote jacko2. Im guessing around $400 depending on the price of a reco rack.

[Calaber]

Guys

Fitting a reco'd rack is not rocket science. You would save half the total cost if you do the work yourselves and you don't need a huge range of tools. It's a bit of a mongrel but it is definitely a do-it-yourselfer. Just make sure you get a wheel alignment after doing the job.