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        General >> Problems >> Leak from steering rack. Alternator query. 
        
(Message started by: catalina on Sep 21^st, 2009, 10:57pm)

Title: Leak from steering rack. Alternator query.
Post by catalina on Sep 21^st, 2009, 10:57pm

Got these two problems on my Cosworth:
1. Oil leaking from steering rack o/s end of steering rack.
Can anyone suggest how I should tackle this efficiently. I.e. Is it likely that I or my local garage will be able to replace a seal - at a reasonable cost - or should I go straight for trying to find a second hand unit? Actual steering is excellent as long as I keep the oil reservoir topped up.

2. Recently replaced a dead alternator with a second hand unit. Ok initially but now the ignition light sometimes stays on for the first couple of miles. So far it has gone out eventually but a very insecure feeling.
Any whizz kids got any ideas? E.g. is there any other unit other than the alternator which could be causing the problem?

Car now done 150000 miles and its a question whether it or I go first!!!

Thanks in advance for any ideas.

John

Title: Re: Leak from steering rack. Alternator query.
Post by Simmo on Sep 22^nd, 2009, 7:33am

John. the view on here has allways been that once the seals in the rack have gone then replacement is the only realistic option. There are 'pattern' parts available as re-built units and I would suggest that is the best route. I suggest you do it sooner rather than later as a sudden loss of power steering is not a pleasant experience and could be catastrophic!. First thing re the alternator is to check that all connections are clean and tight. ;)
The details re the rack are Here (http://www.fordscorpio.co.uk/steermanual.htm) and THIS (http://www.fordscorpio.co.uk/electsystemtest.htm) may help re the alternator.

Title: Re: Leak from steering rack. Alternator query.
Post by einherjar on Sep 22^nd, 2009, 7:49am

Have the same leaking problem with my Cosworth. I keep oil topped up, but that leaking was not good for suspension, cause that dextron goes on front right bushing and kills it. So I decide to stop leaking by changing the lower steering hose

Title: Re: Leak from steering rack. Alternator query.
Post by catalina on Sep 22^nd, 2009, 11:46am

Thanks guys. Simmo, do you know of any suppliers of a reconditioned rack. I am in Shropshire.
I will take a second look to ensure that it is the rack and not the hose(s) before committing myself to purchasing another rack.

I will probably have to get an expert to look at the alternator problem. I note that the regulator can be suspect. Where is the regulator? Is it built in to the alternator?

Clearly I'm out of my depth on this one!!

Title: Re: Leak from steering rack. Alternator query.
Post by Simmo on Sep 22^nd, 2009, 12:35pm

Your best bet is to contact a local Motor Factor but as an example have a look Here (http://www.carparts-direct.co.uk/steering_racks_detail.cfm). Thjis is just one of many which came up on a Google search. Note that on the Cosworth it is the sensontronic rack. If the rack is leaking it is likely trhat you will 'feel' liquid in the actual gaiter. They can hold a fair quantity and do sometimes swell up and split. You certainly need to be sure it is not a leak from the reservoir as the pipe from that is a known culprit. The regulator is usually an integral part of the unit.

Title: Re: Leak from steering rack. Alternator query.
Post by Jonnycab on Sep 22^nd, 2009, 3:02pm

The voltage regulator is removable from the alternator as it only bolts onto the back of it. You have to remove the black plastic rear cover to access it.

I had a dodgy regulator on my alternator & managed to swap it for one off another alternator which had a bearing problem :).....just goes to prove that two wrongs can make a right ;)...... ;D

Title: Re: Leak from steering rack. Alternator query.
Post by Tompion on Sep 22^nd, 2009, 9:04pm

The faults could be linked, as Simmo says check you don’t have a leak higher up (that could drip down to the alternator).
When topping up make sure you don’t drip any, if it goes through the alternator air vents it can make the light stay on.

Title: Re: Leak from steering rack. Alternator query.
Post by catalina on Sep 22^nd, 2009, 9:39pm

Thanks everyone. I have taken all your advice on board and feel confident that I can now keep the car running.

John

Title: Re: Leak from steering rack. Alternator query.
Post by python9 on Sep 28^th, 2009, 10:30am

here you check this out http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Ford-Scorpio-Power-Steering-Rack_W0QQitemZ250495279111QQcmdZViewItemQQimsxZ20090909?IMSfp=TL090909176004r6212

Title: Re: Leak from steering rack. Alternator query.
Post by catalina on Sep 28^th, 2009, 10:55pm

Thanks. My local workshop is checking out my car tomorrow. If it's the rack, I'll go for this supplier.

John

Title: Re: Leak from steering rack. Alternator query.
Post by Scorpio_Mike on Sep 29^th, 2009, 10:28am

I've used kb-racks before and they have a very quick service - would definately use them again.

Title: Re: Leak from steering rack. Alternator query.
Post by cosworth24v on Sep 29^th, 2009, 12:02pm

i have a rack here if its off interest and postage not a problem

eugene

Title: Re: Leak from steering rack. Alternator query.
Post by Matt on Sep 29^th, 2009, 7:08pm

i put this stuff in mine when it started leaking, http://www.stp.com/funcfl_psfsl.php

not had to top up since but does depend on how bad it is in the first place

Title: Re: Leak from steering rack. Alternator query.
Post by catalina on Sep 29^th, 2009, 10:54pm

Thanks again. I chickened out of taking my car to the local workshop. It seems these days that any work at all costs 100's of pounds and I have seriously to consider if it can be justified, even on a vehicle as superb as a Cosworth Scorpio. So, I'll try the STP product you suggest Matt.
In an ideal world I'd drive this car in preference to any other (and that includes the S Type Jag I've been bullied into buying). Pity the female of the species don't appreciate the driving qualities of the Cossie!!!!!. Violins please.