Date:         Mon, 8 Apr 2019 19:05:59 +0000
Reply-To:     "ddbjorkman@verizon.net" <ddbjorkman@VERIZON.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         "ddbjorkman@verizon.net" <ddbjorkman@VERIZON.NET>
Subject:      Re: Power steering update
Comments: To: eric.caron@ICLOUD.COM
In-Reply-To:  <527AB121-8436-4F78-AA53-DDD14B5335D6@icloud.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8

When I first started the renovations on my 87 Westy in 2012, the power steering rack needed help.  I was told that rebuilding the original would be best, as one never knows the condition of a rebuilt job (think alternators).  So it was rebuilt.  And it immediately blew out all over the driveway.  Then I bought a rebuilt unit and, with care, it's still in there.  I think I could use boots though.  YMMV.
Dave B.

-----Original Message-----
From: Eric Caron <eric.caron@ICLOUD.COM>
To: vanagon <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Mon, Apr 8, 2019 12:52 pm
Subject: Power steering update

Hi Listers,

        Last fall I reported a loud power steering sound when I put the van to bed.  I have a update and tips are wanted.

        Last weekend we started up the van to bring it out of hibernation.  It seemed quiet until we turned the wheel, then the o power steering noise started.

        We checked the reservoir and it was full.  we then left the cap off and turned the wheel a few times.  It quieted down. bubbles appeared in the reservoir and the fluid went down.  We topped it off and went for a drive.  All worked normally after that.

we didn’t see much on the ground under the front of the bus.  Boots might be showing fluid leaking.


        My VW skilled friend suggests I should purchase a rebuild kit and let him rebuild the front rack.  I’m thinking put in a good rebuilt one..  He has not rebuilt one before but has very good skills over all.  I’m told it needs special tools.  And I’d like the job to go quick, smoothly and have the best chance for long term success.

thanks Ken for the info on the rebuilt rack!

So, any tips from the group on next steps?
info from your experiences.
And, any tips on other things I should do while we are doing this work? 

I will probably have a skilled friend available for one work day so I want to maximize success.


Eric Caron 
85 GL Auto