Replacement steering rack

[gonze]

Hi all
The seals on the end of my steering rack have failed and now leak.

I just wondered what experience people have had with non VW steering racks and if they last? Or if anyone has had there original rack refurbished?

Thanks

 

[Bigsidavies]

I’ve a feeling I’m about to be in this boat. I found a place in Rotherham I think it was, a while ago that did reconditioning, but I can’t find the place now.
I’ll have a dig around tomorrow when I’m back home and if I find it I’ll update.
Mine is down on fluid and I have a slight damp area so I’m guessing further investigation will reveal a similar issue.

 

[gonze]

I have found a company in Birmingham that will undertake a refurbishment of the rack. When I removed the dust covers the inner tie rods had some surface rust so I guess this has damaged the seals. Hopefully my rack is returned Saturday.

 

[Bigsidavies]

I have found a company in Birmingham that will undertake a refurbishment of the rack. When I removed the dust covers the inner tie rods had some surface rust so I guess this has damaged the seals. Hopefully my rack is returned Saturday.

That’s good. So they refurbish your own rack?
I don’t want an exchange if mine looks pretty good and just has a leak at a hose. Rather have mine back.
If they do a good job then can you post their details on this thread please?

 

[DXX]

If you remove the cap on the power steering fluid reservoir and syringe out the fluid you’ll be able to see a small strainer. If the strainer is dirty there will be damage within the pump and possibly the rack.
I just renewed the fluid on my 2016 van, it was very clean.
Standard running gear, no ride height modifications.

 

[Bigsidavies]

If you remove the cap on the power steering fluid reservoir and syringe out the fluid you’ll be able to see a small strainer. If the strainer is dirty there will be damage within the pump and possibly the rack.

Great tip. Thanks. I’ll do that tomorrow.

 

[gonze]

My steering rack has been damaged in the post

The plug has snapped off the Servotronic unit and I'm struggling to find a replacement. It appears they are not sold separately, although the used Audi ones on ebay look identical.