LDS power steering, leak C5 X7

[davoxx]

The power steering seems fine, but the reservoir is empty and there is a puddle on the under tray at the drivers side wheel.
The leak seems to come from above the red circle and is dripping at the bottom of silver pipe.
D'uh me - it is the pinion seal. I'm guessing I'll need a replacement rack, how much are the reconditioned ones?

Also the rubber brake hose seems to be rubbing on the inner part of the hub. Is that common?

[davoxx]

Is it safe enough to drive with the reservoir empty? It's a springy car so suspension is not affected.
I'd rather drive it back so I can try to fix the rack myself (which is prob a replacement, I don't think they are easy to recondition?) than have it sent to a local mechanic.

[GiveMeABreak]

Not really! You should consider topping the reservoir up with LDS fluid first and keep a litre or so in the boot if you have a slow leak.

[wheeler]

Is it safe enough to drive with the reservoir empty? It's a springy car so suspension is not affected.

If you run the system dry there is a risk of damaging the pump so not worth the risk. If you cant top it up I would have a bowl of weetabix then take the fuse out or disconnect the pump.

[bobins]

Removing and refitting the rack is only part of the problem, the continuing pain in the rear will be trying to seal up the old power steering pipes once you've re-attached them to the rack. They don't like being disturbed and should really be regarded as single use.... and replacement ones are getting hard to find. <Sarcasm mode : ON> Just one of the perils to be expected from running such ancient cars. <Sarcasm mode : OFF>

[davoxx]

I'll make sure it's not run dry so!!

I wonder if the rack was changed and the pipes are leaking? I'll have to get into the footwell.

What should the drivers side brake hose look like? I've been told it was installed backwards, but I think it's more likely the wrong one.

Vin VF7**************[VIN obfuscated, can be read by forum staff]

[GiveMeABreak]

Here is the brake piping:

Let us know which item numbers you suspect if a brake pipe / hose and I can advise of part number.

[davoxx]

Do I need to disconnect the steering pinion from the steering wheel to get the rubber boot off inside the drivers foot well?
Also how do I do that the bolt spins? With a visegrips and spanner?

[davoxx]

Also what it the part no for a tyre pressure sensor and the engine cooling fan for vin: VF7**************[VIN obfuscated, can be read by forum staff]
And if you could give me a list of the extras on that vin, I'd appreciate it! Thanks!

[bobins]

Do I need to disconnect the steering pinion from the steering wheel to get the rubber boot off inside the drivers foot well?
Also how do I do that the bolt spins? With a visegrips and spanner?

Yes, Undo the pinch bolt - I can't remember if it's a Torx head and that's how you stop it turning ??? The steering column shaft should slide upwards with a bit of fiddling. It'll only reconnect back up in one position, but don't turn the steering wheel unduly whilst it's disconnected. There's a couple of nuts under rubber covers to remove, and then the rubber boot lifts off. You'll be surprised how close to the pinion shaft you can get !

[davoxx]

Yes, Undo the pinch bolt - I can't remember if it's a Torx head and that's how you stop it turning ???

Thanks, I couldn't feel anything with my stubby fingers, but I'll try again with a torx!!

[davoxx]

Yes, Undo the pinch bolt - I can't remember if it's a Torx head and that's how you stop it turning ???

Thanks, I couldn't feel anything with my stubby fingers, but I'll try again with a torx!!

Mine didn't have torx, but I realised it only spun a little then it gets wedged and then I can undo the nut. I should have keep at it!