Identifying power steering rack

[tazwegion]

I haven't had a Commodore since my old faithful VH and am having a degree of difficulty identifying the type of power steering rack fitted to this 1997 VT Berlina I am currently working on, I have googled and searched these very forums but the answer alludes me, at present I have been given conflicting advise (Parts Sales Vs. Wrecker) as to what may be fitted.

The Berlina from all reports should have a stock standard rack as it is not a Calais/Statesman however the rack fitted has a cast steel valve housing and not alloy the same as the type on offer from Repco.

This is not my car so I don't want to recklessly toss dollars at it just to find out I need something else altogether.

How can I visually determine a variatronic from a standard rack?

Thanks in advance

 

[strgas]

looks like a kirkby bishop rack and is not a variatronic rack . the varaible rack would have an extra soleniod on the front .

 

[strgas]

variable rack showing soleniod fitted

 

[tazwegion]

You Sir are a legend! many thanks, so what is this cast Vs. alloy valve housing the Auto Wrecker speaks of? can I just use the full alloy unit in place of this cast steel/alloy one?

S/hand $160.00 (cast/alloy OR full alloy)
Repco Reco $200.00 (full alloy only)

 

[strgas]

AC Delco full alloy housing
Suits: VT

Upto VIN: L492504 12/8/1999

 

[Creekrock]

Anybody have photo, parts diagram of the pinion and the sleeve with the plastic ring like turret shape goes in and what sits on top ? Please.