Differences between Mk1,2 and X7 steering racks

[KennyW]

Hi All,

Looking for input to the above trying find the difference between the racks preferably the hydraulic versions.

In light of my recent discovery in the 'cursed thread'.

Kenny

[white exec]

Is there scope for using the earlier versions on X7?

[Stickyfinger]

Very different car.

Just do the "Mod", then it should be fine.

[KennyW]

My thinking on this is,

1.What are the diameters of the pinion external and internal ?
2. What are the differences between the pinion shafts ?
3. What are the differences with the top pinion shaft seal ?

If completely different fine but if say the seals are the same could they be used in the X7 ?

ETC

What is the set up of the steeling spring versions, Do they use LDS for the steering or other fluid ?

Kenny

[bobins]

It's not the seals that are the problem. It's the pinion shaft that rusts and then that rust wrecks the seals. The fault lies in the fact that the shaft is made od sub-standard steel.

There's no difference with the rack between steel and hydro sprung C5 X7, though there is a minor spec difference between 16" wheeled cars and all the others.

[KennyW]

Thanks Bobins,

I'm wondering if the pinion shafts are all the same size ie could they be interchangeable, thus a way of putting good steel into the knackered racks.

Kenny

[Paul-R]

I would also like to know whether the Mk1 and Mk2 steering racks have a similar slight depression around the pinion shaft in the housing which retains water and hence promotes corrosion.

Does anyone have photographs of the pinions as the exit the housing? I'm sure they will be constructive.

[Gibbo2286]

Does the seal hole have room for a second seal? If so how about fitting one upside down to keep the water out.

[bobins]

Pictures of the C5 X7 pinion shaft on Sticky's post here:
viewtopic.php?p=578621#p578621

Pictures of the components of the C5 X7 shaft and rack on my posts here:
viewtopic.php?p=578656#p578656
Here:
viewtopic.php?p=578735#p578735
Here:
viewtopic.php?p=578822#p578822
And here:
viewtopic.php?p=533210#p533210

[Paul-R]

Pictures of the C5 X7 pinion shaft on Sticky's post here:
...And here:
viewtopic.php?p=533210#p533210

Well that one shows the X7 pinion excellently. Now we just need a similar photo for the Mk1/2.

[KennyW]

I've been looking at small rubber ball joint covers to fit over the pinion shaft to cover the seal. Hence I need to know the sizes.

But another possibility is 1 of these might fit inside the pinion housing and prevent some water ingress.

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=htt ... AdAAAAABAD

Something like the above.

Kenny

[bobins]

I actually think it might be easiest and best just to bond a piece of rubber tube over the shaft and fairly tight down onto the seal that sits in the top of the pinion housing, then slather the whole lot in waterproof grease.

[GiveMeABreak]

I'm wondering if the angle of the rack is different on the X7 - if it is set flatter, so that maybe any water sits in the seal-well? I've just never had a steering rack go on any other car I've owned, including the 2 previous MK I & MK II C5s.

I did mention before in one of the threads that I remember on the MK I or MK II (can't remember which now), that there was a copious amount of thick clear plastic polythene encasing the rack - and I do recall at the time wondering whether this was something that got caught from the road. However, when I tried removing it - the plastic sheeting was well wrapped around the rack - so I assumed it was there for a purpose and left it.

As for the materials - if there were any problems (remember the Japanese steel fiasco a few years back), I would of expected them to have rectified this - but given that both my original factory fitted rack and an expensive Citroen - supplied and fitted OEM modified replacement have both failed, the later in less than 2 years, I can't see that the materials could be at fault surely...

Anyway my third refurbished rack is still going strong.

[Hell Razor5543]

Anyway my third refurbished rack is still going strong.

DON'T SAY THAT! Fate will hear you, and be tempted!

[white exec]

The rubber gaiter does seem a good solution.