Power steering Leak (E36)

[Dave]

Hi Guys

I have a leak on the power steering which i first thought was probably the pipes and clamps. After going under the car, i saw the plastic bit circled in the pic below is broken. Doing more research this seems to be the rack. anyone know if the rack must be replaced, or is there a repair that can be done....

 

[Raybimmer]

IIRC these are ZF make and I got a ZF overhaul kit for the e30 about 10 years ago , I would expect a kit may have been available for the e36 as well .
The steering rack can be removed and with a few tools can be stripped and all seals replaced . The oil is being pushed past a seal and out at the dust cover .

 

[sclass]

What's the ballpark figure for a steering rack...an OEM one? :fencelook:

 

[calypso]

I replaced my rack for about R3500 if i remember correctly. Rebuilt unit from ZF direct.

 

[sclass]

The stealers quoted me R9.6k for a new rack 5 minutes ago...are they kidding???!!!! That's a deposit of for my auto/man swap :rollsmile:

 

[Wick-ed]

:fencelook: Here is Sh#t coming. Notice a leak somewhere near the p/steering reservoir too.

 

[Dave]

Jeez that is a bit steep for a new rack. May have to look at a second hand one then.

@ Wick-ed - if it is close to the reservoir, then its probably a leaking pipe or the clamps have broken.

 

[freerider]

I would put money on the BMW unit actually also being a rebuilt one. They also sell VANOS units which they call new, which are actually just rebuilt old units.

 

[Wick-ed]

Jeez that is a bit steep for a new rack. May have to look at a second hand one then.

@ Wick-ed - if it is close to the reservoir, then its probably a leaking pipe or the clamps have broken.

Dave, I'm suspecting that as its below the reservoir, but will check. Thanks

 

[Sankekur]

I would put money on the BMW unit actually also being a rebuilt one. They also sell VANOS units which they call new, which are actually just rebuilt old units.

Have heard this from other sources as well that other things sold at the dealers as new are also rebuilt (PS pumps, alternators, etc)

 

[calypso]

I would put money on the BMW unit actually also being a rebuilt one. They also sell VANOS units which they call new, which are actually just rebuilt old units.

Have heard this from other sources as well that other things sold at the dealers as new are also rebuilt (PS pumps, alternators, etc)

Yep its true, they will tell you themselves. But it says on the parts system if if its rebuilt or not. Most engines, especially as they get older are rebuilt.

 

[sclass]

So shouldn't the prices on these "rebuilds" adjust accordingly??????

 

[calypso]

Rebuilds normally mean that new isnt available anymore.

 

[sclass]

Clearly better off going to ZF. Thanks for the info fellas :thumbs: