Leaking Power Steering Rack

[pcjohnson_ohio]

So it appears I have a slow leak from my power steering rack.
I have driven about 4000 miles since I got the car (03 Jetta TDI Wagon) and have added maybe 8 oz. of fluid (using the proper stuff BTW)
I can see the oil on the left side of the rack on the seal (boot?)
I appears that my only recourse is a rebuilt rack from reading here.

Is that true? Is there some kind of additive that will slow a leak without messing up the whole system.
Also, can the rack be changed from ramps or does it need to be higher off the ground?

Thanks in advance
Pete in Toledo

 

[Golfrunner]

I replaced mine a few months ago on my 2001. It had developed a leak on one of the high pressure lines that are part of the rack. I'd hold little hope that an additive would help you.
You need to detach the subframe to slide the rack out so removal of front wheels are required so would need to block the front end up....jack lower control arms allowing wheel removal and go after it. You'll find that the subframe mounting holes are larger than the bolt...so would spray pain the subframe bolts before removal allowing the same position when re-attached...like you would for lower ball joint replacement.
Not a bad job really... re-align afterwards.

 

[steve6]

There was a thread recently that someone posted a small power steering leak about 6 months ago, they just updated their thread that they used some stop leak and its been fine since then. I cant find the thread but cant do much searching, it would have been this sub forum or tdi101, might be worth looking. Otherwise this is not a terrible job, but a fair bit of work. I have done it with a used rack (that already had tie rods and ready to go) it didn't take me more than 2 hours, for the non experienced most say about 4 hours which may be more correct when having to do a bit more prep work.

 

[Franko6]

Never had a stop-leak do exactly what I want. Seems there are always something that stuff messes up.

The steering sector is usually a ZF brand, but two versions. 1J1422063Q and 1J1422062F. I think the Q version is more common. I'd recommend removing the unit and if you order online, make sure the unit matches. We fought to get one to fit when somebody else installed the wrong unit and altered the unit.

We can get new ones that are warranted that are worth the money.

Truthfully, there are a lot of them that never have had a problem. You can junkyard one, but make sure the boots are dry, undamaged and the unit is relatively clean. Other year models use the same version and it's not only in a diesel.

 

[freakwithracket]

I frequently read that Stop Leak works, but it is a time delay and not a fix. Lots of people will tell you that using it bought them a year or so before the problem returns. I don't see that as a bad thing if money is tight of if you are nearing the point where you are getting rid of the car soon anyway.

 

[pcjohnson_ohio]

Thanks for your input. Trying to decide if replacing the rack is doable before winter sets in.
Really don't want to mess with it in the cold. Could try the Stop-Leak and if it makes it worse, then it's decided. If it fixes it then so much the better.

 

[pcjohnson_ohio]

Tried the Lucas Stop-Leak. Did nothing to help leak.
That stuff is super thick, make the steering noticeably stiffer.
Guess I'll look into replacing rack and possibly pump

 

[minilooker]

It really depends how bad the shaft and cylinders are. It would be better to replace the whole assembly, but surely it would cost and arm and a leg. Repair kit may work, but depends how pro is the mechanic and condition of the remaining major parts.

 

[pcjohnson_ohio]

Ordered this unit from Detroit Axle.
Free shipping and free return of the core. No core charge but return activates the warranty.

 

[Seatman]

I used stop leak, made the problem worse if anything lol

I'd just go get a rack and don't waste your time, takes 2 hours max to fit and that include a 1 hour break


Majority of the time I've seen any issues it's because the boots are torn or not tight enough/sealed so water gets in and causes the shaft to rust which in turn damages the seals.

 

[pcjohnson_ohio]

Yeah mine too. I used to use about 4 oz. a week of fluid. Now its empty (IE no boost) after one drive. But I'm not surprised.