I've noticed a tremendous amount of power steering fluid leaking from the passenger side of my 1999 S70 sedan's steering rack, specifically out of the rubber boot. Is this a sign that just the boot is bad, or the seal in the actual rack is bad? Is the boot used to actually contain the fluid or is it used strictly to keep the pignion clear of dirt and debris?

 

The boot is nothing but dust shield. If so much fluid is leaking from the R&P unit, either there is an external damage or the seal has failed.

I am not sure if shops do repair on the R&P unit on Volvos, but rebuilt units seem available at many places for reasonable price. However, the job may be a PITA, at least on the 850.

I would wait for replies from Tech or S70driver for better suggestions.


JPN

 

Sounds like a bad rack to me.
Yes it is a pita to replace them.

 

Ok, I'm 99s7o's dad and I will be doing the job.Its my understanding that the chasis number is used to identify the correct rack to be used. Is this correct ? I've been given two prices from dealers of approx $700 for a rebuilt rack yet I see the racks priced considerably lower online.Do you use online vendors for steering racks and if so who ? I've read where you gave someone advice when replacing a rack on the 850 that ATFisused rather then steering fluid, is this the same with the S70? What I have certainly does not look like ATF unless its dirty.

Thanks

 

Try looking in the General section or the top of the S70 section there is a post with alot of links in it.
There should be some sites there that sell the rebuilt racks.

Also the 99 and newer used synthetic power steering fluid instead of ATF.

Yes you also see what rack is has but either the chassis or a number on the plate under the hood.