RE: Fluid leaking from steering rack boot
 

alright...i think i'm finally on my way now...just (hopefully) one last question :)

At the middle of the rack there is a nut/bolt that attach the rack to a bracket piece which connects to the middle of the subframe. What is the proper order to tighten these bolts? Should i tighten the nut to the frame, then tighen the nut/bolt that hold teh bracket to the rack...or vise versa? Or does it really matter?



Secondly (well i guess it's 2 questions)...i noticed some fluid leaking from what appeared to be the transmission from somwhere. After bolting the subframe back up i noticed that the jack that was supporting the trans case must have lowered over the 2 weeks it's been supporting the engine/trans. it wasn't dripping that i could see, but there was a couple drops on the RH side of the axle, near the seal that goes into the trans. Could the fact that my jack lowered a bit have caused something to leak? Any idea where the leak could be coming from? I'll keep an eye on the levels to see if this continues to leak or if it was a one time thing... But any input would be appreciated.

Thanks!

RE: Fluid leaking from steering rack boot
 

The order doesn't matter. I always bolt the bracket to the rack before installing it.

Not sure about the leak keep an eye on it.

RE: Fluid leaking from steering rack boot
 

got her all put back together today, finally...

Now, i added some PS fluid to the resevoir and noticed a couple things...it seems to be almost a dark color..the fluid that is in there. Also there seems to be a lot of bubbles and the fluid is kinda frothy lookin. i'm guessing that this is due to the air in the system bleeding out, but the color somewhat worries me.

the fluid does seem to be clear, like there's not contamination in it, but it's darker than it normally looks when pouring new fluid in. I noticed on the new rack that i got that it had a redish fluid in it already, lost a little bit when i removed the plugs. Where as the fluid i put in was STP steering fluid, more of a tanish color. I'm wondering if it's just the 2 mizxing or if this is something to be concerned about...

Think it would be worthwhile to have it flushed? Is this something i can do myself?


Secondly, and more worrisome, there is a godawful noise coming from the pump, when i turn the steering wheel back and forth, it's REALLY loud low pitch whining sound. I did the thing with turning the wheel all the way to to both sides for a little while (2 min maybe), then went for a drive around the block, and it seemed to get a bit better, but still can hear it pretty easily. Is this normal?


Thanks!

RE: Fluid leaking from steering rack boot
 

Once all the air is out it should be quiet.

Also you are supposed to use ATF for fluid.

I will bet the color is from the Mix of the 2 fluids.

RE: Fluid leaking from steering rack boot
 

I just opened my wallet and paid the $600.00. Didn't skin a single knuckle! :D

RE: Fluid leaking from steering rack boot
 

why do you use Trans fluid instead of power steering fluid? Is it alright to have a miz in there or should i drain the whole thing and refill?

RE: Fluid leaking from steering rack boot
 

I would drain and refill.

mine has the assisted steering which seems hard to find! Can I put a new rack and pinion in without the assisted steering?