Steering rack question

[mhuynh]

Both of the boots on my steering rack are ripped and I've contemplated on removing PS altogether. Can I just keep using it with the ripped boots are do I still have to replace it whether or not I keep PS.

Also, is there a tutorial on how to remove PS the correct way?

[Blackangusinc]

If you want to keep those sliding journals and arms clean and un-scored you should defiantly replace the boots.

[mhuynh]

How do I know if the seals are still good? The boot is dry.

[jlevie]

If the boots are dry, the seals are still okay.

[mhuynh]

Yes, I still have ATF in the PS reservoir but nothing is coming out of the boot. I assume the steering rack is still useable. How hard is it to replace the boots? I found a guy selling a rack for $40 with good boots. Should I replace my boots or just swap out the whole rack?

[Blackangusinc]

The boots are supposed to be dry. They are only there to keep dirt from destroying the seals.

[mhuynh]

Ok I think my rack is fine then. It just needs new boots.

Although it is quite hard to turn....maybe my pump is on its way out...

[Blackangusinc]

E30 racks are a little on the stiff side. You'll know if it is working when you pull the PS belt off and turn the wheel while the car is stationary. It should be a lot harder.

[Blackangusinc]

Check out this link. http://www.r3vlimited.com/board/showthread.php?t=130389

[mhuynh]

E30 racks are a little on the stiff side. You'll know if it is working when you pull the PS belt off and turn the wheel while the car is stationary. It should be a lot harder.

I've never driven an E30 before so I wouldn't know how stiff it is. Maybe I'm just used to my 07 civic with electric power steering.