95 civic ex coupe
D16Z6 150K
Power Steering
255k on body

Based on the information and pictures below, is this rack and pinion worth repairing?

Issues:
Steering rack does not have boots on either side
I'm loosing fluid from lines and maybe rack, not sure.
The wheel will stick from time to time. (will not turn back automatically)

car use:
Daily Driver
I do not take this car past 3100 RPM..Ever
I park on the 5th floor of a garage Monday-Friday.

Goal:
Stopping leaks without replacing rack and pinion.


Previous Troubleshooting steps taken
Power Steering Stop Leak(still leaks)


would a "rebuild" be cost effective? if so can someone suggest a "kit". Any positive advice is appreciated.

Respectfully,
DanCan'tSwim

 

I would reccomend using your unit as a core,
and source a rebuilt unit.
I cant see these being that much money expecially if yours is still good for core value.
Shop around your local parts store, or better yet find a undercar supply firm that supplies all of your local mechanics shops, they have all servicable/rebuildable items in stock most of the time for competitive prices, and most will sell to the public via will call.

 

Thanks B.C.
They sell re manufactured units for about $200 here locally +$100 Core Charge. The money is not as big of an issue as is the potential down time. would it be feasible to service this without removing? If not I'll Order a rebuilt unit and replace.

If I take the rack out I'm going to replace my tie rod end bushings and lower ball joints, then get an alignment.

My bro is flying out from Bako to see me so I'll have to wait till hes gone to work on the car, I'm teaching him to drive a manual

 

It would only seem feasible to use a rebuild kit if

1 the non serviceable items are still in good shape (gamble)
2 you or a close friend have access to the special tools most people dont have to break these units down to change the seals and packings, front end brake and alignment shops would have and use these tools for repairs for customers, not many others have a reason to have them unless they make money with them.

So it all depends on your skill, confidence, and know how as it is probably not that complicated.
If the car is worth the repair most like myself would simply source the rebuilt unit as a direct replacement.
I can assure you much more down time trying to rebuild the rack other then a direct replacement.

 

Cool Beans,

I will purchase a re manufactured unit and replace. I will have to wait a couple of weeks because of my bro flying out, and I won't have access a garage for a bit. I'll report back with pics.

Thank you for the honest and quick responses, they are greatly appreciated.

Respectfully,
DanCan'tswim

 

no worries, and I forgot to reply to your question about the alignment,
Yes the Toe adjustment would have to be set.
Your best bet is to remove the old, and duplicate the length/adjustment point of the tie rod ends to the new unit, that will get you real close.
You can set your alignment yourself, but its semi complicated,
just setting the front toe on a rack at the alignment shop should not run more then 25-30 bux.

and im assuming that the unit should come with new inner tie rod ends, and you will most likely be reusing your old outers, that is if they arent chowdered. check for play within the rod ends.