rack rebuilding or replacing?

[James Wieler]

Searching shows a discussion about rebuilding XR racks ourselves, but I see no conclusion posts. So is this what people are doing these days?
I noticed Rockauto carries a kit for the ZF (waffle) rack for $30, anybody tried it?
also pskits.com list kits for either ZF or TRW ($48 vs. $25)
Any advice here?
Mine is the ZF (waffle) rack and is leaking on both sides, no loose steering or tie rod issues.
thanks
James

[Dirt Devil]

Having recently messed around with mine, I tried doing the 'depowering' mod described in one of the threads (can find it by searching here) and ran into an issue. The thread describes the procedure for a trw rack, not a zf. While the process was similar, there was definitely some major differences. I ended up not being able to even remove my rack from the sleeve. I will definetly be doing more research before I try and tackle a rebuild or depower again. Hopefully someone here will be able to provide a better step by step with pictures for the zf rack. Conceptually it is not difficult though. I ended up finding a rebuilt rack that I will be swapping in instead. Good luck though if you do decide to rebuild and hopefully you'll remember to take pictures of the process unlike me

[nathankershaw]

I used a PSKIT last time and am about to again.

Fairly simple, it was the more expensive one.

I had a very slight leak where the steering shaft goes in after but nothing to worry about, I did one inner track rod arm as well.

All good. Just take your time.
It worked well for me.

[SvoSierra]

I've done 4 pskits.com ZF kits with great results. Just be super clean!
While you are at it, redo the pump as well. $12 kit from any auto store.

[Rob M]

I am going to try and rebuild my ZF rack I ordered the PSKIT we shall see how it goes. I did fid some information that might help. http://forum.bmwland.ru/index.php?act=a ... t&id=26966

[James Wieler]

cool, post any tricks or tips that you figure out, I'll try and take a few pics while I'm doing mine. My kit should arrive sometime this week.
cheers
James

[James Wieler]

got the kit from skits.com today, the receipt says SK-8449 but the packages reads SK-9120 1983-92 Volvo 940/960 or Scorpio with ZF rack 1988-1990 so I guess it's the right one.
Does anyone know if the Volvo rack is compatible with our cars? Might be easier to get.
Here's a few pics of what I got




hope those links work
JAmes

[CV12Steve]

Probably just the seals are the same.

[nathankershaw]

Yeah I think Scorpio & XR ZF racks are the same.

[Rob M]

Yep that is the same kit I received the receipt also in hand writing sk-8449 I'm guessing we will soon find out

[James Wieler]

Anybody know if there are any bearings that need to be replaced? If so what size are they?

[SvoSierra]

Bearings should be fine unless you know you sandblasted them or something horrible. I've never replaced mine. Just clean up and re-pack. Smooth as silk, or rayon perhaps......

[jkxr4ti]

I need to do this sometime as well, I have a slight hard spot on center. I think it might be that shuttle valve but I want to rebuild the seals while i'm at it.

[DAReese]

I need to do this sometime as well, I have a slight hard spot on center. I think it might be that shuttle valve but I want to rebuild the seals while i'm at it.

IT is on my list as well. I have a notchiness when moving the wheel, so I imagine the rack is in need of repair or restoration.

[James Wieler]

what cures the notchiness? Are these parts available? I assume it's just a bearing issue?