Is this a revised steering component?

MikeT · Post by **MikeT** » 01 May 2008, 16:22

I noticed, what I first thougt was, a plastic bag caught between the n/s driveshaft and whatever the component is behind it. There was a small bolt lodged in there but that went back into the intercooler pipe stay where it belonged

Picture was taken from under the n/s wheel arch - what do you make of that bag, it looks like the bag components are wrapped in when new as it covers the entire length of it (whatever it is), only having a hole poked through this end where the nut is?

I guess that's not liable to suffer much dirt ingress but is it ok to leave it there?

uncle buck · Post by **uncle buck** » 01 May 2008, 16:33

I know my ZX had a plastic type bag over the power steering ram....don't know if it will be the same on your car.

Post by **CitroJim** » 01 May 2008, 16:36

That's exactly how it should be Mike. The "bag" is there to protect the PAS ram against dirt. It acts as a gaiter. All PAS rams should have one!

It is a good sign it's still there

MikeT · Post by **MikeT** » 01 May 2008, 16:51

Well I never! Is this a french thing? Would it be an orderable item if it got damaged?

I did try tugging it off first

but decided against stretching and tearing it, just in case....

We live and learn.

slim123 · Post by **slim123** » 01 May 2008, 17:56

That'l be the ram gaiter, wot a laff!!

You would have thought that Citroen, with all of their knowledge could have come up with a decent rubber gaiter.

Regards
Slim.

N_CURTIS · Post by **N_CURTIS** » 09 May 2008, 17:41

My ZX is missing it's one of these.

It was hanging down and I thought it was just a plastic bag that had got caught up, so yanked it. Doh!

I was wondering how feasible it would be to fit a rubber gaitor even if I had to split it (a bit like those split CV boot kits you can get) then cable tie it on.

Figured it would be better than leaving the shiny bit to the elements.......

jeremy · Post by **jeremy** » 09 May 2008, 18:21

I think you'll find that the ram is perfectly OK with the piston shaft exposed to the elements - My BX hasn't any protection - and maybe its shortened the ram life but its not leaking at 207,000 miles.

My guess is that its to protect the ram from rust before the car is driven - and if it functions for a bit afterwards (12 years or more in the case of our ZX) then that's a bonus. I expect the things are most vulnerable when new before the thing becomes well soaked in oil and polished by the seals.