I feel like anytime I change the oil in either my 80 or 100 I find something new to fix. I've been trying to track down a mystery front end "clunk" for a few weeks so I pulled both skid plates and made sure everything underneath was torqued down. While under there, I noticed the PS valve cover was leaking on the exhaust manifold and the DS of the steering rack was covered in thick, sludge like oil. The latter would explain why I have to top of the power steering reservoir every few months. With 144k mi, I'm sure the original steering rack is probably on its way out. I always thought mild torque steer and occasional wandering were a result of the lift but now I'm starting to think its a worn rack. The mystery clunk occurs when taking off again from a complete stop. I'm guessing the rack bushings are shot too and the clunk is a result of increased movement. I know its not cheap, but would it be worth replacing the steering rack now, or should I wait until the leak and clunks get worse?
As for the valve cover leak...the 4 visible bolts on the PS were not even finger tight. Torqued them back down so hopefully that takes care of my other leak. If not, replacing the gaskets doesn't sound like too bad of a job.
As for the valve cover leak...the 4 visible bolts on the PS were not even finger tight. Torqued them back down so hopefully that takes care of my other leak. If not, replacing the gaskets doesn't sound like too bad of a job.
