what will happen if I don't replace my steering rack

[duffbeer911]

Hi there. had some problems with the steering and found a tie rod link(?) broken. So we had a look and replaced the link thing, tie rod ends, and lower ball joints. The mechanic says I also need a new steering rack as it is leaking oil.
I can't really afford one just at the moment ... so I'm wondering what is the damage I could do from continuing to drive it like this?
Also, the guy suggested I put some regular engine oil into the power steering oil... does that sound like a good idea?

thanks for the help!

 

[Gerdo]

Oil in the PS fluid? I wouldn't. Maybe a PS conditioner/sealer.
How bad is the leak? If not too bad, keep an eye on the fluid level and refill as needed. If you run the pump dry, you will be into replacing the pump too. If it's a slow leak, keep refilling.

 

[1985taylor1925]

If you dont change your steering rack a hole will be ripped in the universe, and Michael Jackson will come back from another dimension. Please change your steering rack!

No, that probably wont happen.

Its pretty common for these racks to leak. Mine leaks right now. I dont know anything about adding motor oil to a steering rack, but I would suggest adding Lucas steering rack stop leak, since thats exactly what its meant for. I dont know why a technician wouldnt have told you that.

If the rack is really loose and knocks, it may contribute to wearing out the front end linkage components at a faster rate than they normally would. But it would have to be pretty bad for that to really be an issue. I have a bad rack right now (dont ever go remanufactured), and have not replaced it for the exact same reason - price. I would however change your rack as soon as funds become available, as a new rack will make the front end feel so much better. Ill be replacing mine (for the third time) this spring.

 

[shootmymime]

spend the money on the boob job. is that the type of racks we are talking about? haha

no your rack might be leaking a little bit. (mine does) but i dont worry about it. just check the fluid every oil change. i hardly have to add any. actually ATF is generally used for steering.

 

[duffbeer911]

ok cool. So as long as I keep the oil up I should be fine for now? its not like the wheels are going to fall off as I'm driving along or anything ..... ?

EDIT: just read the other replies. thanks! btw, I'm in Sierra Leone.. so its hard to get things like PS conditioner. And the new rack out here is something like $920. For now I'll just keep the fluid topped up!

 

[cordrayj1]

Oil in the PS fluid? I wouldn't. Maybe a PS conditioner/sealer.
How bad is the leak? If not too bad, keep an eye on the fluid level and refill as needed. If you run the pump dry, you will be into replacing the pump too. If it's a slow leak, keep refilling.

this is what i have to do once a week. you can hear it when it needs fluid.