Leaking Steering Rack on C5 (HDI 2LT 2001 110)

Jeff · Post by **Jeff** » 15 Mar 2011, 18:41

Has anyone had any experience of this problem? Reservoir low and LDS dripping down near side wheel arch.

Few questions:
Will it just get worse or can i just keep topping it up?
Has it got to be seals or could vibration have lossened the union nuts?
If all the LDS runs out will it bugger up a pump?
How much does a new rack cost or is a refurbished one a better option?
How much time should the job take? (I may need to use an independant garage for this one)

All advice greatfully received...

addo · Post by **addo** » 15 Mar 2011, 19:21

Hello Jeff, it may well be the low pressure return line; something rather simple to fix (ignoring the convoluted looping that PSA usually employ).

Cheers, Adam.

Jeff · Post by **Jeff** » 16 Mar 2011, 19:34

I was hoping for a few tips on this problem but maybe the good news is that its not a common problem

I got a quote today for refurbishing the rack - £145 (+ vat)

addo · Post by **addo** » 16 Mar 2011, 19:47

If it is what I suggest, the rack itself needs no work - the return hose being wholly external.

Jeff · Post by **Jeff** » 16 Mar 2011, 21:42

Thanks Adam, will I be able to see it from under the car?

addo · Post by **addo** » 17 Mar 2011, 05:54

On a hoist, for sure With two wheels up on the kerb and wriggling under - maybe. Be careful to ensure that if the car slumps it won't drop far enough to pin you under...

Look for a rubbery hose about 7/16" thick coming off the rack input shaft just near the universal joint, and slimy wet with hydraulic oil.

Jeff · Post by **Jeff** » 17 Mar 2011, 20:07

Hi Adam,

Called into a garage today on way home, run by someone i know and was going to ask if car can go up on a ramp saturday morning (when i/m off work), to try to pinpoint source of leak.

I pointed out oil around wheel arch and straight away he said it was from the strut, the return pipe was split (so whenever the cars suspension lowered LDS fluid was lost).

He pulled off end bit and refixed the pipe 1 minute flat. I am hoping thats the end of this problem, which was very similar to what you suggested so thanks very much for your help.

Jeff

Old South Wales

Post by **myglaren** » 17 Mar 2011, 20:24

At least it was a cheap fix

Check and fill the LDS reservoir now if it needs it (probably will)

Jeff · Post by **Jeff** » 18 Mar 2011, 19:51

myglaren wrote:At least it was a cheap fix

Check and fill the LDS reservoir now if it needs it (probably will)

chucked a litre in yesterday and tomorrow will top up to max.

Post by **myglaren** » 18 Mar 2011, 19:55

You do know that the LDS should only just cover the bottom of the 'strainer' thingy - the slots are the level indicators.

I put a bit too much in mine - hasn't done any harm

Jeff · Post by **Jeff** » 18 Mar 2011, 23:36

I think you place the suspension on low and top up to the bottom of the strainer.