Steering Rack Cost (1 Viewer)
- Thread starter implayaz9
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If I recall correctly, it was about $2600 for a new Lexus rack, installed at a Toyota dealership when I had it done last year.
First thing I'd do is make sure where leak is coming from. Often times leak is from a hose or the vane pump. Typically these leaks are on passenger side.
Once sure it's the rack leaking add 1 1/2 oz of AT-205 reseal (don't use a stop leak) to Power Steering reservoir and drive for 5 hours minimum. This will not stop hose leaks, nor have I seem it stop vane pump leak. But works well on rack leak especially on input shaft seal.
If AT-205 doesn't stop leak, look into new or a remanufactured OEM rack. CVJ in Denver is one source. I'd not go with aftermarket.
What install cost will vary by area. Call around to Dealer's and local Toyota specialist. Don't use the corner general auto shop that works on just any vehicle.
Once sure it's the rack leaking add 1 1/2 oz of AT-205 reseal (don't use a stop leak) to Power Steering reservoir and drive for 5 hours minimum. This will not stop hose leaks, nor have I seem it stop vane pump leak. But works well on rack leak especially on input shaft seal.
If AT-205 doesn't stop leak, look into new or a remanufactured OEM rack. CVJ in Denver is one source. I'd not go with aftermarket.
What install cost will vary by area. Call around to Dealer's and local Toyota specialist. Don't use the corner general auto shop that works on just any vehicle.
I would follow 2001LC advice on this matter. I can say it worked for my leak which was coming from the input? shaft. Not only did the leak stop, in addition AT-205 made the whole rack tighter. I wanted to thank 2001LC for pointing out the correct way to flush, and apply the seal conditioner.
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- Thread starter
- #6
@2001LC.. Thank you for the detailed info. Unfortunately I am not very mechanically savy... How would I go about checking the leak?
I had a local shop check the rig as I just bought it and they said everything was solid besides the steering rack and the valve gasket. Advsied me that It would cost about $1200 for the rack and another $450 for the gasket.
I had a local shop check the rig as I just bought it and they said everything was solid besides the steering rack and the valve gasket. Advsied me that It would cost about $1200 for the rack and another $450 for the gasket.
Call Evan and Soni at Pro Auto in St George, Utah. I trust these guys, Woody took me there when I broke down in the middle of nowhere Utah. Both are Toyota guys. St George is not really that far from you in Vegas.
St. George, Washington, Utah, Auto Repair Pro Auto Care
St. George, Washington, Utah, Auto Repair Pro Auto Care
You're welcome, I'm glad it worked out.
I recommend only using a Toyota specialist. @custyota ^^ gave you one @Kaizoo another, you may have some others in LV area. I know Slee as most Toyota shops and dealers, if they see a rack leaking will say replace it. But we find the input shaft seal (where steering column enters steering rack on LH side/DS) really responds well to AT-205 Reseal, even rack side seal (steering rack boots filling with fluid) respond halve the time. What I've not seen respond well to AT-205 is hoses and the vane pump (power steering pump) seal. AT-205 is not a stop leak, it's a plasticizer that restore what time has depleted. Again' do not use any "stop leak" or "high mileage" products.
If on RH (Passenger side) side (which is most common side to see leaks on), we've many spots for a leak above rack. Most common is rubber hoses, vane pump is one I'm seeing more of around 250K miles. Any good shop will know the difference between these leaks and rack. But all these will run down or drip onto rack boot and often misread as a rack leak in a snap inspection. But if you're sure a rack leak AT-205 is worth a shot.
First thing I do to find leak is pull off engine cover and under shielding and clean spotless of all oil. Then I watch for leaks starting point after every drive. I've not used a UV dye to detect leaks, but hear more and more guys really love the stuff, it can see where it would save time.
If new or remanufactured rack is needed, I'd go with Toyota OEM only.
For valve cover leak; we're getting very good results from re-torque valve cover bolts to spec, they're almost always loose. If spark plug tube seals are also leaking, AT-205 is worth a shot here as well. But if tube seal(s) are leaking you're probable in for valve cover gaskets and spark plug tube seals replacement.
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How much was everything? Mine is leaking from the driverside. I have to add 1/4 of PS fluid every month.
Detroit Axle offers OEM remans with lifetime warranty. Installed + parts I was under $800. The shop owner (very reputable, high quality) swore he'd never do it for the quoted 2.5 hours ever, never, ever again. This job seems to suck more than most on this truck
CVJ in Denver makes quality rebuilds for sure.
I am wheeling a rebuilt axle from them on 35's and no re-gear... their junk works and they warranty for life.
I am wheeling a rebuilt axle from them on 35's and no re-gear... their junk works and they warranty for life.
While you are replacing the rack, replace bushings and definetly check the low and high pressure lines. I had my changed out, with 245k at the time of channging out the rack I figured it was a good idea. Whats $500 extra bucks right?
FWIW, my local indy shop quoted me $900 to install a reman Toyota rack on my 03 LX.
