In a message dated 11/4/2001 8:54:06 PM Eastern Standard Time, 
LISTSERV@GERRY.VANAGON.COM writes:

> How to rebuild power steering rack?
> 
       Cary, rebuild is quite easy.  Just make sure you clean the rack well 
before beginning so as not to get any dirt inside.  The hardest part in going 
to be the removal of the locking devices that keep the cast end pieces on the 
central tube.  These can sometimes be a bear to remove.  Remove all the 
tubing connecting the two cast end pieces.  Remove the output to the steering 
column.  Remove the cover plate for the spring tensioner. Then remove the 
locking devices by turning them counter clockwise to unscrew and loosen them. 
 They are recessed down inside the cast aluminium end pieces and have two 
notches, 180 degrees, apart.  Support the rack in a bench vice and using a 
drift begin tapping in the notch so that the locking device will turn.  If it 
does not begin to turn and excessive force need be applied STOP and heat up 
the area with a propane torch and try again.  If they look like they will not 
come loose then STOP and send the unit away for exchange on an already 
rebuilt one.  If you damage the castings in removing these locking devices 
then your casting is toast and good for garbage only !  AFTER you have these 
locking devices removed then you can begin to disassemble the ends and 
replace the parts inside.  Make note of where and which direction all the 
parts are installed before removing anything.  There are no diagrams anywhere 
to help if you get mixed up.  Clean everything well and install the new parts 
from the kit and reassemble in the same manner in which you took it apart.  
That's it that's all.  Good luck !     

Peace�

Frank Condelli
Almonte, Ontario, Canada
<A HREF="http://members.aol.com/BusFusion/bfhome.htm">BusFusion</A> a VW Camper camping event, Almonte, ON, May 30, 31, June 1, 2, 2002
'87 Westy & Lionel Trains
Member: <A HREF="http://www.vanagon.com/">Vanagon List</A>, <A HREF="http://www.bcn.net/~limbo/">LiMBO</A>, <A HREF="http://www.westfalia.qc.ca/CIW_English.asp">IWCCC</A> & Capital City VW Club 
Vanagon/Vanagon Westfalia Service in the Ottawa Valley
<A HREF="http://members.aol.com/Fkc43/stebro.htm">STEBRO/Vanagon Stainless Steel Mufflers</A> �
<A HREF="http://members.aol.com/Fkc43/busindex.html">Frank Condelli & Associates</A> or http://frankcondelli.com

 

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