Replacing Steering Rack Fluid

[Quinthirty]

Hi,

I haven't done this before and would need some help with it. The fluid in the reservoir is leaking from the underside, and I checked that its the return hose is a bit old. I have the part with me and ready to replace it along with the fluid as its dark brown. But before I proceed I would like to know that if I change the fluid, is there anything else that I should watch out for?

1. Can I drain the whole steering rack of its fluid? If yes, do I need new oil seals for that?

2. How many liters would I need? So far, I only bought 3 liters.

3. What's the best way to clean the rack of its dirt? I'm not sure whether pure gravity and laying it on its side is the best way, or can I tilt the car to one side, and let compress air push out the oil from the rack.

Would appreciate technical advice. Thanks!

[jlevie]

You can drain the fluid from the reservoir and pump, but to drain all of the fluid from the rack you'd have to remove it from the car. If you remove a banjo bolt to change a hose you should use new crush washers. Other than that no seals have to be replaced. Three liters of fluid is more than you need to fill the system.

[Quinthirty]

You can drain the fluid from the reservoir and pump, but to drain all of the fluid from the rack you'd have to remove it from the car. If you remove a banjo bolt to change a hose you should use new crush washers. Other than that no seals have to be replaced. Three liters of fluid is more than you need to fill the system.

Thank you, Jim, the guru! Much appreciated.