Reputable shop in or around Chicago? Power steering rack replacement

[Sean7]

Not sure if this is the right forum to post for this question. I'm looking for recommendation on a reputable shop or mechanic near or around Chicago.

Took my 06 V8 Sport for a power steering flush as it was making a whining noise when turning the wheels at low speeds. They found out that the steering rack is leaking and recommended replacing it. Here is a video from the Toyota tech:

TruVideo - Repair Orders

They've quoted me 1811.19 to replace "Shaft Assembly, Power Steering Rack" and it includes the alignment after.

Upon researching around here I found out that this job requires air/power tools and takes a good amount of time, I don't have the resources to do the job on my own and looking for recommendations on a reputable shop nearby to get an estimate from.

Thank you.

 

[pauldub]

It not leaking very much at all. You could probably add fluid and keep driving it for a long time. Besides you needs a much oil coating as you can get since you live in the salt zone.

 

[rdruss]

Not sure if this is the right forum to post for this question. I'm looking for recommendation on a reputable shop or mechanic near or around Chicago.

Took my 06 V8 Sport for a power steering flush as it was making a whining noise when turning the wheels at low speeds. They found out that the steering rack is leaking and recommended replacing it. Here is a video from the Toyota tech:

TruVideo - Repair Orders

They've quoted me 1811.19 to replace "Shaft Assembly, Power Steering Rack" and it includes the alignment after.

Upon researching around here I found out that this job requires air/power tools and takes a good amount of time, I don't have the resources to do the job on my own and looking for recommendations on a reputable shop nearby to get an estimate from.

Thank you.

Not sure how far you want to drive but I know a good shop in Geneva, IL. owner owns a Tundra and so is familiar with Toyota. He did a frame patch on my '03 4Runner. Let me know and I'll give you name/number.

 

[Drcoffee]

Your rack isnt necessarily bad, just leaking. The issue with hydraulic power steering is there is no filtration. The same fluid recirculates continously, and carries the dirt and grime with it. This degrades the rubber seals and creates leaks. Before jumping to the rack replacement do this first.

Flush all the old PS fluid again and Buy a bottle of AT205 from the auto parts store. Its a polymer that rejuvenates the rubber seals. Add 1-2 onces and run it for a few thousand miles. If that fixes the leak, then add a Magnefine inline 3/8” filter right before the reservoir.

I promise you, the steering will feel like a new car again within 500 miles.

 

[Sean7]

It not leaking very much at all. You could probably add fluid and keep driving it for a long time. Besides you needs a much oil coating as you can get since you live in the salt zone.

Thanks for the feedback. Interesting thing is I topped off the ps reservoir after the dealer visit and I haven't noticed the level go down for a few days and the noise is gone.

Not sure how far you want to drive but I know a good shop in Geneva, IL. owner owns a Tundra and so is familiar with Toyota. He did a frame patch on my '03 4Runner. Let me know and I'll give you name/number.

Definitely, please send me his name and number when you get a chance. If not for this job, I'll save the details for future projects. Thank you.

Your rack isnt necessarily bad, just leaking. The issue with hydraulic power steering is there is no filtration. The same fluid recirculates continously, and carries the dirt and grime with it. This degrades the rubber seals and creates leaks. Before jumping to the rack replacement do this first.

Flush all the old PS fluid again and Buy a bottle of AT205 from the auto parts store. Its a polymer that rejuvenates the rubber seals. Add 1-2 onces and run it for a few thousand miles. If that fixes the leak, then add a Magnefine inline 3/8” filter right before the reservoir.

I promise you, the steering will feel like a new car again within 500 miles.

That's good to know, thank you for that information! Hopefully the nice weather holds up here so I can get it done this weekend.