e30 pwr steering rack

[ttrousdell]

i recently switched out the busted steering rack from my 90 with one from an 88. I put the rack in right but when i put pwr steering fluid in the resevoir it all leaked out the rack. Im sure its coming from the 22mm hollow bolt that connects the line from the pump to the rack. I remembered to put both aluminum washers back and i know i tightened it well but its still leaking. is there a torque number for these bolts (22mm and 19mm) and are the washers one time use only. and advice is appreciated.

[jasonsnoddy]

yup they are crush washers.

this should help:

http://www.pelicanparts.com/cgi-bin/ksearch/PEL_search.cgi?command=show_part_page&please_wait=N&make=BMW&model=BE30&section=SUSstr&page=2&bookmark=9&part_number=32-41-1-093-597-M17

also known as "sealing rings"

[ttrousdell]

thanks guy. it was drippin at about a drip every 5 seconds. is this normal if you have crappy washers. like i said i think i tightened it well

[jasonsnoddy]

replaced my leaky rack, and this new one leaks from the same spot that yours is leaking, although i believe my cause is me over-tightening the new crush washers. i keep putting it off because reconnecting those lines is such a PITA. i might just smear some goop on it and call it good.