OK...to add to my other problems the car has been leaking p.s fluid for a while now. I add fluid every now and then but it's been OK. Now there is a sizable puddle of fluid under the car. Is it time to replace the rack or can I just do seals? Are rebuilt racks available? I'm not sure how much life this car has left so I'd rather not spend a fortune on it. Thanks in advance for any help.
Cheers,
Dan

 

I have done the replacement on my 91accord Lx. If you do this replacement here is a tip to make it a little easier. Once you have the car on jack stands and the rear wheels blocked look at where the tie rod meet the rack & pinion shaft. You will notice that there is a ball joint attached to the tie rod and bolts to the shaft. There is a washer that is bent over 2 flat spots and if you bend that back straight then use a 17mm open end to unscrew the ball joint. I did not have to have an alignment .The rest is pretty easy.
I found this site for a rebuilt but I don't know how good they are. I got mine from the junkyard.
http://www.rackandpinionwhse.com

 

I would try a bottle of Lucas PS Stopleak before replacing the rack. Be sure leak is from rack actuator shafts and not a hose or end fitting. I've had some positive experience w/ Lucas PS Stopleak.

If you decide to replace, I like a used unit everyday over rebuilt, and lower cost also. Try car-part.com to find a unit near you

good luck

 

I used 2 bottles of Lucas stop leak ($10 each) and maybe it slowed it down but it didn't stop. I'll double check all of the fittings and hoses but I'm pretty sure it's the rack. It seems to me that a used rack for this car is already pretty old. How do I know it won't be as bad or worse? I wonder what years will fit my '91.

The rebuilts I've seen run about $175 (after core charge) and have a 3 year warranty.

Thanks for the alignment tip...I was wondering about that too.
Cheers,
Dan

 

Either way, used or rebuilt, you risk all your labor effort if the unit leaks. I like the odds better w/ used, but it's "u-pick-it" here. If you want almost absolute assurance of a good part, go w/ OEM, but the price will hurt.

good luck