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Possible Steering rack leak

Discussion in '348/355' started by Intheflesh, Aug 6, 2015.

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  1. Intheflesh

    Intheflesh Formula 3

    Jun 2, 2006
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    #1 Intheflesh, Aug 6, 2015
    Backing out of the garage yesterday, I noticed a rather large puddle that wasn't there last time (maybe 2 weeks ago?) Puddle is about 6-8" in diameter and its a red fluid. Location front passenger side.

    My guess is that it is ATF from the steering rack.

    I haven't had a chance to look under the car yet to pin point exactly where it's coming from.

    I was looking at schematics this morning, and I don't see any hoses in that general area, which makes me think the leak is from the rack its self.

    I've read posts stating that DIY steering rack replacement is possible, just time consuming and frustrating. I couldn't, however, find any actual DIYs. Any pointers?
     
  2. WATSON

    WATSON Two Time F1 World Champ
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    #2 WATSON, Aug 6, 2015
    The PS system should not have ATF in it. PS fluid is what should be in there.

    From an operational perspective, the only things that can leak in the area you describe is the PS or the brakes. Might want to pop that wheel off and take a look at the brakes as well. Sooner instead of later on that one.

    There is a full DIY write up, complete with pics, on the R&R of the rack on this site somewhere. I'll try and look for it later.
     
  3. junglistluder

    junglistluder F1 Rookie
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    #3 junglistluder, Aug 6, 2015
  4. junglistluder

    junglistluder F1 Rookie
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    #4 junglistluder, Aug 6, 2015
    Wrong. The power steering system uses ATF. If you have PS fluid in yours then I suggest you change it right away.
     
    Mike Morrissey likes this.
  5. WATSON

    WATSON Two Time F1 World Champ
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    #5 WATSON, Aug 6, 2015
    I stand corrected. Manual suggests Shell Donax TX (ATF fluid).

    Pretty sure my shop put in PS fluid on my major this past spring. I shall double check.
     
  6. Intheflesh

    Intheflesh Formula 3

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    #6 Intheflesh, Aug 6, 2015
    Gracias! Just what I was looking for. Looks like I know what I'm doing this weekend.

    Ha, one of my friends said the same thing... why would ATF be leaking from your steering rack?
     
  7. WATSON

    WATSON Two Time F1 World Champ
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    #7 WATSON, Aug 6, 2015
    I agree. AEE is the best place for PS rebuilds. They did my TR8 rack & pump & the pump on my 355.

    MAKE SURE YOU TELL THEM NOT TO PAINT THE PARTS! :) They paint everything black on the way out the door.
     
  8. junglistluder

    junglistluder F1 Rookie
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    #8 junglistluder, Aug 6, 2015
    Excellent point! I also requested no paint, very important! :)
     
  9. Intheflesh

    Intheflesh Formula 3

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    #9 Intheflesh, Aug 6, 2015
    Thanks for the tips!

    I need to bookmark this.
     
  10. Intheflesh

    Intheflesh Formula 3

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    #10 Intheflesh, Aug 6, 2015
    excuse the naivete; but is the rack rebuild a DIY job too?
     
  11. m.stojanovic

    m.stojanovic F1 Rookie
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    #11 m.stojanovic, Aug 7, 2015
    The important first part is whether you can get the rebuild kit. Otherwise the rack is DIY (not so much the pinion spool valve) but it can be tricky when you come to inserting the rack toothed section through the new seals - they can easily be damaged.
     
  12. Red Baron

    Red Baron Rookie

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    #12 Red Baron, Apr 13, 2016
    Guys,

    I have the same issue on my 1996 355 Spyder. Can you provide the contact information for AAE and Tabitha Soles?

    Any other reputable shops for this steering rack rebuild? I'm in N. California, but will ship it to the right shop for quality work. Great price is a bonus...

    Thanks!

    RB
     
  13. yelcab

    yelcab F1 World Champ
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    #13 yelcab, Apr 13, 2016
    The rack rebuild is a DIY item. Look for a post where the kit part number is provided.
     
  14. Enzojr

    Enzojr F1 World Champ

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    #14 Enzojr, Apr 13, 2016
    Maybe this does not apply but....
    What color is your coolant ?
    My front water pump went out and the drain hole from up front is right above the steering rack. It was draining/dripping on the rack and then to the garage floor.
     
  15. WATSON

    WATSON Two Time F1 World Champ
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    #15 WATSON, Apr 13, 2016
    These guys: Contact Us
     
  16. WATSON

    WATSON Two Time F1 World Champ
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    #16 WATSON, Apr 13, 2016
    ^^^^^^^^^^^^^THIS^^^^^^^^^^^^

    Make damn sure it is the rack that is leaking. R & R that rack is a biotch.

    Pull the front compartment carpets and look for other leaks to make sure.
     
  17. Red Baron

    Red Baron Rookie

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    #17 Red Baron, Apr 14, 2016
    Thank you Watson...
     

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