Leaky Rack?

[JayArr]

Take a look at the pics attached. I noticed a lot of gunk on the steering lines at the rack but what baffles me is that it almost looks like the leaking fluid ran UP the lines. Anyone else ever see this?

Just looking at the lines on Rock Auto and it seems like this may be the opportunity to buy one of those hand operated hydraulic hose end crimpers.

 

[Mooseman]

They don't look wet, just sweaty with dirt encrusted. With the engine out, it would be a good time to swap them out.

 

[JayArr]

That's what I was thinking, I "may as well..."

I dislike paying for "lines" it's $10 worth of parts put together with a machine I don't own and then the price becomes $75. I just can't justify spending $2K on a hydraulic hose crimper.

 

[mrrsm]

FWIW... There is one other possible source for that "Sticky Gunk".... Check the positions of the Gel-Filled Motor Mounts. When they fail... by splitting in the carcass under heavy compression... that "Black Jelly" can get squirted out and get all over anything nearby. The consistency and condition caused by that stuff can make for a sticky durable Tar Oil Like presence that will not easily break down and collect dirt and road debris.

 

[JayArr]

I would never have thought of that, I didn't even know the mounts were gell filled, thanks MRRSM. I went out and checked them and they are whole so that wasn't the problem here. I'll just buy a new pressure line and 6 feet of hose to replace the soft return line sections. It's probably a one penny o-ring at the connection to the rack but I don't want to take the chance and have to replace a line after the engine is back in.