Steering rack replacement

[dklipfel]

Is it true that the PTGT steering rack is a "sealed" unit? The dealer says I need a replacement (at 23,000 miles!) and that there are no seal kits to do a rebuild to stop the fluid leaks. Anybody have any info on this? Thanks.

[lowpt]

I don't know what they mean by sealed unit but, I just had to replace the rack on my car. I tried to find a rebuild kit first and was told they don't make one for it.

[Cal Cruzer]

How much did you end up paying for the rack? How was the R&R? I have the start of a problem on mine.

[lowpt]

The rack was 225.00 at Advance. The r&r was not difficult but very time consuming. I think it took me 6 hours. This is a good time to upgrade your tie rod ends as well.

[VNT]

Most racks are replaced as units, I dont think the dealers even rebuild them in house.

Here is a tip, get a turkey baster and a couple times a year suck the fluid out of the reservoir and refill it with fresh ATF. This will keep the fluid fresh and lengthen the life of the rack. If you really want to, you can crawl under and disconnect the low pressure line and drain it into a bucket and refill. A magnafine filter in line with the low pressure line also isnt a bad idea.

[dunk08]

Originally Posted by dklipfel

Is it true that the PTGT steering rack is a "sealed" unit? The dealer says I need a replacement (at 23,000 miles!) and that there are no seal kits to do a rebuild to stop the fluid leaks. Anybody have any info on this? Thanks.

Because the entire steering rack is a sealed, self-contained unit, it's usually more replaceable than it is repairable. Common problems like wobbling, play in the wheel, and wandering don't necessarily mean your steering rack has gone bad - it may be do to strut and/or suspension problems.

[Vjklander]

For a 2003 PT, how does one determine if it has "Firm Feel Steering" or "Standard Steering"?? Where would "4656746AK" be stamped on the rack if it is on the rack, esp, is it visible without removing anything?