Replacing ITREs....fluid in the boot

[MudMud]

I'm in the process of replacing all of the front-end components because they're all beat to hell and loose. I pulled off the boot on my passenger side ITRE tonight and a small pool of fluid poured out of the boot (Maybe 2 Tablespoons). I'm assuming that this is PS fluid and that I've got a failing rack on my hands...Because of course I do.

So the question is: What do I do? I don't really want to spring for a new rack right now. I've got other things I'd rather spend money on. I also hate to put the new ITRE on when I know I've got some sort of leak happening in there. If I keep an eye on the fluid level and keep it full, what's the worst that can happen? Serious question, because I'm honestly not sure.

If I do go for a new rack, where is the best place to buy from and does it come with new ITREs? I really don't want to have to buy a rack in 6 months and have to spend more money on new ITREs. If that's what's going to happen, I'll just put the old ones back on until I replace the rack.

 

[frodiesel]

Only use oem, rack and inner tie rod. Also for what it's worth I'm not planning on fixing a small leak if I found the power steering system was full of power steering fluid and not the correct automatic transmission fluid or ATF 3

 

[Rock_Rat]

If I do go for a new rack, where is the best place to buy from and does it come with new ITREs? I really don't want to have to buy a rack in 6 months and have to spend more money on new ITREs. If that's what's going to happen, I'll just put the old ones back on until I replace the rack.

Since you have the old ones off already, just install the new ones, get it aligned, throw some Lucas Power Steering Stop Leak in there and call it good for six months...or more. It's 100% guaranteed to stop leaks.

The PS fluid (ATF) you see in the boot is from the rack and it won't hurt you to drive it with a leak. Just make sure you're keeping your reservoir serviced.

OEM comes with the ITRE's. It's a reman from Toyota but quality (preferred). I think Napa and A1 Cardone are pretty good and less expensive options.

 

[mtbtim]

[MENTION=102606]infamousRNR[/MENTION] and I just replaced a steering rack recently for another member. Video will be out fairly soon. We have a backlog of videos to edit since we've been so busy wrenching lately. Good stuff coming your way!

If you're going to replace your rack, we'll have a good tutorial for you to follow soon. [MENTION=116467]Rock_Rat[/MENTION] is correct. The new rack comes with the inner tie rods.

 

[Unner]

Don't worry about it, a little fluid in the rack boots isn't abnormal with the age and miles on most of these rigs. Mine had a touch in the boots also when I changed mine. Probably not 2 tablespoons, but it wasn't dry either. Just keep an eye on the fluid, I check mine whenever it comes to mind and the level never moves. Those two table spoons have probably leaked out of yours over the past 15+ years...

When the fluid level starts to move noticeably and you get puddles on the ground then it is time to start thinking about rack replacement. Or when there are mechanical issues with the rack like slop, etc.

 

[JayRolla]

Even my few year old new rack leaks. Just keep her full.

 

[alumarine]

My 1990 has leaked for the last 7 years.
I just add 2-3 ounces of ATF once a month.

The original owner used power steering fluid which probably didn't help it.

 

[NHRunner]

Im just going to repeat what everyone else has said. Stop Leak for a temp fix and keep an eye on the fluid level. ATF DEXRON3 only. General concensus is that the A1 Cardone rack works great, but replacement can be a pain. OEM ITREs are best because they allow a full range of articulation which you will most likely need of you are lifted and wheeling.

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