Noticed that I am leaking a substantial amount of PS fluid from the top of the rack and pinion gear, where the steering linkage (from the steering wheel) ties into the rack. Looks like a rubber seal at that location has desintegrated and fluid is just pouring out. Can I just replace the seal or does the entire rack need to be replaced?

 

For this problem you have 2 options. You can either purchase a remanufactured rack and pinion , in this application it includes new inner tie rods and bellows. Depending on the age and mileage of the vehicle this will be the appropriate repair or you can purchase a R&P master seal kit. This will include all necessary seals but will be more time consuming to install as you essentially will be rebuilding your own R&P. If you decide to go the re-seal route the part #'s at O'reilly Auto Parts are 8907 for 4wd and 8924 for RWD. Those part #'s are for a 00 Durango but should work for any 00+ durango or dakota. I personally would go the reman rack and pinion route. Hope that helps.

 

There is about 155k on the original R&P. How involved is it to do the seal replacement? Any special tools needed (other than your basic set of tools)? The cost of the seal kit is about 1/4 the cost of a re-manufactured R&P, but if the job takes 4x's longer, then is it really worth it?
Also, is replacement of the R&P fairly straight forward? Again, any special tools required or is it just a case of removing some nuts and PS oil lines and then spliiting the tie rod ends at their connections?

 

Replacement of the r&P is straightforward. Basic hand tools are all that is required. Benefits of getting the r&P is less time , you will get a lifetime R&P and less headache. While your doing the job I would also replace the pressure and return lines as well. The pressure line will need to be removed anyways during the repair and the return for insurance. A new power steering switch would not be a bad idea as well if it is a 4.7L. I dont think replacing just the seals makes much sense unless it is a lower mileage unit that has a small leak personally.