Power steering leak - Advice needed

ukporker · Aug 31, 2006

I have got a bad leak on my power steering - after poking about underneath the car it appears that the seal on the end of the rack is leaking.
I am going to be driving the car to Italy tomorrow on holiday.
If I loose all the fluid - which seems likely with the speed it is leaking - will the car still be drivable and will I do any further damage.
I realise that driving at parking speeds will build up the muscles but I understand that the power steering does not do much at speed.
Should I just take the belt off and go without power steering at all.
I know that some people have converted back to manual steering - how drivable is the car like this.
At the moment I have decided to go with the leak and manage parking etc if the power fails alltogether.
Anyone got any info or opinions on this.

Richard

944 Turbo
1987 - Nautic Blue

Fen · Aug 31, 2006

The rack will be damaged by having no fluid in it unfortunately. You could disconnect the pump and possibly make a seal using the rubber boot as without the pump pressure it may be less likely to leak.

In terms of driving I have a power rack with the pump removed and the lines looped back (the fluid is required as a lubricant) and it's fine once rolling. Parking is different as you need to creep to turn the wheel, but at least it doesn't make that howling noise!

ukporker · Aug 31, 2006

Thanks Fen - I thought that it would be ok once on the move.
I would have thought that there would be enough residue of fluid left in the rack to lubricate for a short while - but if not I am going to have to get a rebuilt rack anyway[8|].

Richard

944 Turbo
1987 Nautic Blue

Fen · Aug 31, 2006

You might be OK on the residual fluid, I really wouldn't like to say. I know from Rennlist of people doing what I did except packing the rack with grease and it only lasting 1,000 miles or so.

Your steering might be a bit heavier than mine as (if you have any) you'll have to push fluid through the stationary pump when you turn the wheel. Air in the lines to pump and fluid lying in the rack will be perfect for you and also sounds quite likely. I would try to make sure the dust boots are a tight fit to discourage fluid draining out if I were you.

ukporker · Aug 31, 2006

I think I will go with it - The option is to go in either my wifes VW Beetle or my Audi oil burner[:'(]
I will post when I get back in two weeks and let you know how I got on.

Cheers

Richard
944 Turbo
1987 Nautic Blue

944Turbo · Aug 31, 2006

my local motor factors has some power steering fluid that is supposed to stop leaks (think it might be STP) , might be worth topping up with that to slow the leaking down,
Tony

Hilux · Sep 1, 2006

Try this sort of thing from your local factor??

Brand Name

.

Item Code

M830

Product Name

Stop Leak (250ml)

Datasheet
none available
Health & Safety sheet
none available

Price ex vat: £4.680

Price inc vat: £5.50

In Stock

Average Rating:

Rate this product:

Qty

Product Description

Minimise oil leaks by restoring the performance of elastomer seals. Add 250ml contents to engine or gearbox oil to maintain the tightness in old or leaking seals. Suitable for diesel and petrol engines, gearboxes and axles.

Hilux · Sep 1, 2006

*cough*

Lucas Power Steering Stop Leak BOTTLE[/b]

Lucas Power Steering Stop Leak
GUARANTEED to stop seal leaks in power steering units or your money back. Totally corrects rack and pinion problems.
It is 100% guaranteed or your money back. It is also totally effective in reducing slack, squeals, and hard spots in worn rack and pinions. Your results will be immediate and long lasting.
Key Benefits