inner tie rod and saw a leak?

2019 DODGE CARAVAN
130,000 MILES • AUTOMATIC
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SEBASTIAN1980
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I was wondering if you could tell me what is wrong with my vehicle. I removed the boot around the inner tie rod and saw a leak coming inside that steering column. I'm not sure if it's the hose, but i saw lots of power steering dripping from the inside of the boot where the steering is.
Pic provided.

Thanks
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Apr 2, 2025 at 12:50 PM
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STEVE W.
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That is somewhat normal. The boots are there to catch any fluid that might make it past the internal seals. In your case what you found was that fluid. The fluid section is toward the other side of the rack but there are seals on both sides. They are rebuildable but if it's leaking and you need to replace the inner seals you can replace the unit with a reman part faster and without the special tools to do the rebuild. It is a Mopar 5151705AF unit.

Apr 2, 2025 at 11:04 PM
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SEBASTIAN1980
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Thank you, Steve, for your input. Is there any other way or the easiest way to remove the rack and pinion without removing the bottom frame? I'm planning to work on it underneath with Jack Stands since I don't have the money to take it to the shop.

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Apr 3, 2025 at 12:43 PM
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STEVE W.
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The one crossmember has to come off and the engine mounts unbolted to get room enough to get it out.
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Apr 3, 2025 at 1:44 PM