Leaky rack

[dan_b]

Is there a common place for the A2's steering rack to start losing its hydraulic oil from?
Having just had to re-charge the hydraulic system on mine with about 600ml of fluid, that has got to have gone somewhere - any tips as to where it might be from? Unfortunately I've also got an engine oil leak going on somewhere too so the underside of my car's engine and gearbox is a black sticky mess right now so difficult to see much, if at all. Got to sort that too... that'll put paid to any more mods for a while whilst I get these leaks fixed!

 

[spike]

I don't think its a common problem but the most likely cause is worn rack seals. The fluid leaks into the track rod gaiters which may contain most of it but you might see fluid weeping from either end of the gaiter since you have lost quite a lot of fluid.
Its also worth checking the hoses and union on the pipework between the rack and PS pump.

Cheers Spike

 

[dan_b]

Are the rack seals replaceable - ie can it be serviced to stop the leak, or is it a whole rack out and replace job?