When it’s Time to Do a Power Steering Rack Seal Replacement

Recent technology has seen many automotive use rack and pinion as the main component to power the steering system. Power steering rack seal replacement is deemed necessary when the seal around the rack and pinion wears out leading to a leak. The following steps will help you secure new seal which will help prevent escalation of the situation or damage to other components.

Park in a Safe, Flat and Dry Place

The task of replacing new power steering rack seal is demanding on itself alone. A garage would be a perfect setting or any flat, dry surface. The area should be clean and with enough light. You can drive the car to a ramp stand or use jack stands which will offer more stability. Lock the wheels as you do not want them to move sideways during the seal replacement. You will need the following sets of tools. Hammer, Wire-brush, vise grips or pliers and screwdrivers.

Remove the Dust Cap from the Pinion

By unscrewing the nut underneath the cap by a crescent wrench, you are going to expose the steering shaft. Starting with this procedure is going to make power steering rack seal replacement quite easier. Pry off the circular dust seal and the snap ring using needle nose pliers. Separate the rack from pinion using a punch tool. Do this by placing the punch tool on one end and gently tap with a hammer until the pinion slides out. Using a pair of pliers remove the seal.

Replace the Seal

The power steering rack seal replacement kit usually comes with a corresponding rack seal. When removing the snap ring, pull the rack from the passenger side end of its housing using needle nosed-pliers. The seal on this side will come out easily making power steering rack seal replacement easy. The seal on the driver’s side is exposed too. Remove both using a plier. Slide the new seals on the passenger and driver’s side. This step is the most challenging when performing power steering rack seal replacement. Make sure to follow the steps below.

The pinion and steering column from the lower yoke are removed. After doing this, check the shaft for any cracks and thoroughly clean it. Using a nose-pliers, secure the seals and replace the shaft gently. Proceed to insert the rack into its housing. Apply gentle pressure as forcing the rack into its place may cause the housing to crack.

Insert the Pinion into its Housing

Using a hammer or a punch, gently tap the pinion into its place. The snap ring is placed on the exposed side of the pinion shaft. Slide on a new dust seal from the power steering rack seal replacement kit onto the pinion as well. Using a wrench, screw the nut back onto the shaft of the pinion. Place the dust cap into its original position.

Bottom Line

Due to regular driving and pressure exerted on the steering system, the power steering seal on the shaft will at one point crack die to wear and tear leading to a leakage. Regular check-ups ensure the condition is dealt with before it becomes problematic. The fluid is flammable and low level of the fluid may cause serious damage to the power steering rack and the pump. Having it repaired on time will cost you but it’s cheaper compared to replacing the whole system.

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