Rack and pinion rack failure?

LOUM

MEMBER
2003 CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER
6 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
180,000 MILES

I had the rack replaced because of leak. I also had the crankcase seal replaced at the same time. Rack failed after 5 weeks. Next rack lasted only 5 days. Present rack is on car now 2 weeks. What can the problem be for the continued failure.

Saturday, October 15th, 2022 AT 9:44 AM

3 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
110,068 POSTS

Hi,

Are the leaks happening on all of the ones that have been installed? If so, let me know where the leak happens.

Also, is the replacement rack and pinion a new unit or remanufactured? Are the ones being installed all from the same manufacturer?

Let me know.

Joe

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Saturday, October 15th, 2022 AT 10:10 PM

LOUM

MEMBER
2 POSTS

The first rack was OEM I was told. The seal on the driver's side went out on that one, after 5 weeks. The second rack was remanufactured, I don't know from who. Both seals on this one went out in 5 days. The current rack is remanufactured, I think it is from O'Reilly's. No problems yet from this one.

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Sunday, October 16th, 2022 AT 6:30 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
110,068 POSTS

It is odd that both had the same type of failure. The vehicle doesn't have speed-sensitive steering so there shouldn't be a problem with that. The only other thing I can think of would be the power steering control valve.

This valve directs fluid flow based on the direction you turn. If it is not working properly, I guess it could allow pressure to go in two directions and build too much pressure. However, that would be unlikely.

If you look below, I attached the directions for replacing one. I wanted to add this for you to first see what I'm talking about and if you wanted to replace it, you could do it yourself.

Let me know.

Joe

See pics below.

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