When a steering system begins to fail, it is a good idea to take a look at all
the factors. With a steering system this is a key factor in avoiding future
complications, not to mention future expenses. A steering rack or gearbox may be
replaced due to a number of reasons but can also reveal some pre-existing
problems.
A power steering system is run by fluid that is pumped throughout and creates pressure that can assist with the directional rotation. When a new rack or
gearbox is installed it may seem to be too tight or slow moving compared to the
old unit. The issue here is usually not the new part. However, the new part has
most likely revealed that the pump is not creating enough pressure. This tight
steering is caused by the tightness of the new rack which the low pressure
cannot manipulate. The old unit was broken in and easy to move, thus it could be
manipulated with very little pressure from the pump. The sign of a bad pump after a
steering part install is the same
as before, stiff steering in both directions.
Another common issue after an install is to have a lack of power assist, and a
leak from the top of the unit. This leak is not from a bad rack or gearbox but
from a clogged line, which causes back pressure. A steering rack has no seal on the
top and if fluid is pushed out of this area it means the fluid cannot travel
back to the reservoir. This issue can be solved by replacing the lines or
flushing them if possible.
The last common issue after a steering install is noise from the rack. Now, there
is no such thing as noise from a rack or gearbox. The noise is traveling from
another source. Inside of a rack there are no pumping parts that can create
noise. Once again noise in a steering system is created by the pump and travels down
the attachments to the largest point. This point is either the rack or gearbox. Even
though this is where the sound can be heard it is not the source. Noise can be
associated with air in the system or a failing power steering pump.
