"The Rack"

[james accordino]

--- gwbutler <gwbutler at net1plus.com> wrote:
> Hello all,
> 
> seeing numerous references to faulty steering racks
> on the Quattro list, I 
> wondered if this particular rack was on the way out.
>  It [the rack] doesn't 
> leak steering fluid (although,..the steering fluid
> was very low when I bought 
> the car). What I notice is that the car seems to,
> occasionally, pull very 
> slightly to one side or the other. Once it seemed to
> momentarily stiffen while 
> turning right.  I'll cut to the chase... How would I
> know if my rack was shot?
>  What characteristics should I be watching for?  TIA
> 
The rack won't cause the car to "pull" per se, this is
an alignment/bushing issue.  Spotty assist when
turning is an indication.  If the assist momentarily
"disappears" while turning and then resumes, that
often means that spot in the rack tube is worn.  Mine
leaked internally for a while and the fluid would
accumulate in the boot and then slowly "disappear". 
Don't actually know if it burned off or just slowly
leaked out somewhere.  Also check the condition of the
boot VERY CAREFULLY!  Even a small tear in the boot
can ruin an otherwise good rack.  A large tear can
shorten it's life to weeks, depending on the
conditions.  After checking different options
including used and rebuilding it myself, I replace
both racks with rebuilds from Jorgen.  I've been very
satisfied so far.  2 yrs. on one and about a year and
a half on the other.  Apparently they put stainless
steel sleeves in their rack bodies where the alloy
wears.  They say they offer a lifetime warranty (which
I hope I'll never use) and were the cheapest by
far.(excepting used)

HTH
Jim Accordino