Hey Dietmar,

You need to install a rebuilt rack and pinion unit. You could, of
course buy a rebuild kit and do it yourself, but personally I've
found that to be a real hit-and-miss proposition.

I replaced the one in my '86 about 6 years ago with a rebuilt from
Autozone (pretty cheap, and lifetime warranty). They're also
available from online stores like Busdepot, Vanagain, etc. It's a
pretty easy job, but I'd suggest replacing the tie rod ends while
you're at it, then have it aligned when done (you *can* reinstall
the existing tie rod ends and skip the alignment if you're *really*
careful about accurately measuring tie rod length before
disassembly, but nothing eats tires faster than having the toe-in
out of spec., so keep that in mind).

Once installed, I simply turned the wheels back and forth, from
stop to stop (with the front end jacked up to minimize loading)
until all the air bled from the system. Been working fine for 70K.

Good luck,

Keith Hughes

Dietmar Schlei wrote:
>
> I am new to a VW with power steering (who would ever believe that there is
> something like a VW with power steering!).  I have a 85 Vanagon that leaks
> fluid out of both ends of the steering bellows.  Any suggestions out there
> about the best way to fix this?
>
> The steering itself seems to be OK, goes very smooth and even, no excessive
> play or rattle, just the darn fluid dripping out and making ugly spots on
> my driveway!
>
> As always, any suggestions are welcome!
>
> Dietmar Schlei