Aftermarket Power Steering Lines

[RumHam26]

I need to replace my steering rack and lines. I'm going OEM for the rack, but am considering going aftermarket for the lines. I am seeing Sunsong, Edelmann, and Gates options on Rock Auto and eBay. Couldn't find much on the forum about quality of aftermarket lines. Does anyone have experience with any of these? Even with the brands in general?

Thanks!

 

[Drew76]

I picked up an aftermarket high pressure line from Rock Auto about 5 years ago, I think it was the Sunsong, no problems so far, also got the return line fitting stub at the rack end. I too just got a OEM Rack as part of my upcoming front end suspension, steering rebuild but plan on reusing the line.

 

[swapped_mini]

I have had great luck with Gates for timing and accessory belts and hoses, they still manufacture a bunch of stuff in the USA too. Can't speak to the quality of the other brands as I haven't used them that I am aware of.

 

[Zoom-a-Loom]

I have used Gates for many items, always top tier and USA made.

 

[HiluxSurf SSR-G]

are the lines damaged?
if not, why replace them?

 

[Drew76]

are the lines damaged?
if not, why replace them?

In my case the line connections were completely seized at the rack end, literally broke the flare nut wrench in 2. the high pressure line is all 1 continuous mix of flex and hard line no removable fittings.

 

[RumHam26]

are the lines damaged?
if not, why replace them?

Yeah the lines are very rusted - I was expecting them to spring a leak any day but that rack beat them to it.

 

[phattyduck]

I have used Gates for many items, always top tier and USA made.

That has all changed in the last 5-10 years, so watch out... Gates isn't what it used to be, sadly.

-Charlie

 

[RumHam26]

I bought and installed the Sunsong kit from Rock Auto - they were the only one that had both lines and all the brackets. They fit really well, and they seem to be working fine - no leaks and no whining pump. We'll see how they hold up against corrosion - I will probably keep them coated in fluid film on the metal parts.

 

[nissanh]

Crow-foot tool

In my case the line connections were completely seized at the rack end, literally broke the flare nut wrench in 2. the high pressure line is all 1 continuous mix of flex and hard line no removable fittings.

Use a good quality crawfoot tool with an extension and then a ratchet.

I used a Gates timing belt in my 92 corolla and it started showing cracks around 50K miles. Guess for a pressure hose steering it is not crucial.