Removing Steering Rack 2.0 8v

[dmc4087]

Hi guys,
Going to remove my steering rack tonight to try and find an oil leak. Any tips on doing so? Seems straight forward enough but thought I would ask just incase.

1997 2.0 8v

Thanks

 

[Dolly_Gti]

on a mk2 golf ( almost identical ) you have to lower the subframe slightly to squeeze the rack out sideways. im not 100% on this as when i did it the engine was out and subframe removed, guess thats abit extreme for you though lol.

 

[dmc4087]

Nothings too extreme, might just mean that it wont be happening tonight lol. I dont think the subframe is in the way on the Ibiza but knowing my luck it could be.

Thanks mate

 

[dmc4087]

After furthur inspection last night, it appears you may be right!

I found the source of the leak though, its from a seal(?) at the passenger end of the rack, which can be seen when the boot is removed. Can this be replaced or is it non-servicable?

 

[Dolly_Gti]

if its the seal under the gaitor ive never known one replaced, it must be do-able though as thats all that happens if it gets sent away for "recon" certainly on my golf was about 5 times cheaper to get a rack of a scrapy or ebay and i chucked the leaking one.

 

[dmc4087]

Phoned Seat yesterday for a replacement seal but they didnt have anything. A friend in a VW dealership here thinks he can get a replacement seal though. If not, I can get a replacement rack for 40 pound, so not too bad.
Thanks