Took my 850 to a local mechanic after finding steering fluid underneath. He found both fluid pipes on the steering rack were corroded, one leaking. He reckoned I might have to replace the complete rack. Anyone else had this problem and managed to overcome it withour replacing the steering rack?

 

Hello Auldtam,

If its an 850 and everything under the car is original, then I would say YES. Irregardless of the year.

When I first owned my 1994 850 Estate I had a number of items to deal with including the rack and lines. The lines become so rusted that safe removal is impossible and it is hard to inspect the interior of the rack, for worn components due to the leak,without disassembly. And by this pointa proper job can be done and you would be out less cash than trying to fix just the leak.

Im a pretty nosey person when the car is being worked on and I always see what needs to be done and why. Mine was in very rough shape and there wasnt really a choice after I saw the condition the assembly was in.

If youre really not sure take it to another shop and see if they diagnose the same problem and solution.


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Thanks for the advice QB...

Today's update...I telephoned a company who supply hydraulic pipes and hoses for plant and machinery I explained the situation and a very nice guy told me he can make up exact copies of any pipes if I can take the origionals off the car myself...As the steering works perfectly when the fluid is kept topped up I think I'll give this a try...I'll let you know how I get on next week...Tam.

 

The most common cause of power steering system leaks is age and/or high mileage. After time, power steering seals and o-rings tend to dry out and shrink causing leaks. Rislone Power Steering Stabilizer with Stop Leak works to revitalizes these seals and makes them soft and pliable again.
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