On Tue, 31 Dec 1996 pactor@communityonline.net wrote:

> I recently hit a BIG bump in my 1985 Vanagon and, evidently, some seals
> in the rack ruptured. Power steering fluid just flows out!  My mechanic
> says that he could replace the seals but wasn't sure how long it would
> last.  He also said that he couldn't "guarantee" his work and
> recommended that I purchase a rebuilt rack.  Got one price off the net
> of $450.00 with my core.  Whoa, had no idea they were so expensive?
> 
> So....looking for recommendations.  Should I go with the "unguaranteed"
> work and hope for the best or just go ahead and "bite the bullet" and
> get the rebuilt rack? 

Since you are in Vacaville, I would call John, the service manager at Wes
Lasher VW in Sacramento, and ask him what they do with PS racks.  He is a
good guy.  Their phone is 916-441-2761.  I suspect it would be smart to
try the new seals before getting a $450 exchange rack.

> Perhaps there's another alternative?

I see the Parts Place catalog has a kit of used parts to convert power
steering to non-power for $250 and a $50 core charge.  Maybe you could
pick up those parts locally for less.  You could also get a used PS rack
at a local dismantler, I suppose.

Mike 
'82 diesel
'88.5 GL