i noticed a leak under the car and it turned out to be a cracked power steering rack boot(driver's side).

- Does anyone have instructions and tools required?
- What is the difficulty of repairing(if i repair it myself)?
- How much will it cost at a repair shop? best estimate
- Will I need to get a wheel alignment after replacing or is there a boot replacement kit that doesn't require the wheel alignment?

thx in advance

 

Here is the inner tie rod end kit number 68019643AB, Its the same part number for both sides. This is a Mopar part number. You should have a alignment done to set the toe.

 

just got off the phone with a repair shop. they said if the bellow is split then it means dirt has gotten into the rack and pinion and the entire rack and pinion must be replaced - at a cost of $820. can anyone confirm this? or can i just have the boot replaced? thx

 

The boot doesn't hold fluid in. If you are getting fluid into the bellows boot, the shaft seal is leaking and those aren't replaceable, you will need to replace the steering rack.

 

+1 Tizzy, the boot just keeps out dirt, the seal on the inside of the rack is shot,
Boot replacement wont stop the leak

Unfortunatley manufacturer suggests that steering gear should NOT be serviced or adjusted. If malfunction or oil leak occurs, the complete steering gear assembley must be replaced.
(sounds like a GM move to me)

find a rack at a local bone yard, pain in the **** to change but not impossible,
or even a rebuilt one

as for what the repair shop says, remember they are a business, and have to warranty stuff. if it wasnt leaking I'd say its a 97 to hell with whatever dirt got in there and change boot. but because of the leak says the seals done, so boot replacement wont help at all.

solution: live with leak or change rack (think you could find cheaper tho)

 

when my rack was replaced under aftermarket warrenty, the quote was around 870