Leak in steering rack boot

[mossman77]

My 04 G35 has a slow leak seemingly coming from the passenger's side steering rack tie rod boot (not sure of the technical name). Do I need to be concerned with this? From what I understand, it is over a thousand dollars to replace. It's been that way since I bought it two years ago, and it doesn't seem to be a problem. However, I don't want it to become a serious problem. I found a rack online for about $250. How difficult would it be to do it myself? Also, any idea where I can obtain an online repair manual (.pdf format). Thanks.

[joe603]

Hang in there...I've asked some techs to help.

We do have FSM manuals on the G-series FAQ (link in my sig)

[Q451990]

Is it actually leaking fluid, or are you seeing grease coming out of a torn boot? If the boot is torn I would replace it, and clean the grease out to prevent any dirt and grit that's in there from doing more damage. Add a good multipurpose grease to replace whatever you remove.

If it's leaking ATF around the boot due to an internal seal failure - it's your call. I would keep a close eye on your power steering resivoir and make sure that you don't let the fluid drop. As long as you don't let the fluid get too low and get air into the system - you're not going to do any additional damage.

From reviewing the factory service manual for the '04, it looks like it would be a relatively simple replacement. I would read it to see if you're comfortable with everything you'd be doing.

I do a partial fluid replacement on all three of my vehicles with each oil change in hopes that it'll keep the fluid fresh and help protect the seals.

Heath

[mossman77]

Definitely looks like steering fluid, not grease (didn't think there was grease inside the tie rod boots). Resovoir level is fine. Found a remanufactured steering gear for $250 and read the replacement procedure. Sounds pretty straightforward, something I would feel comfortable tackling myself if I need to. For now, I'll just leave it alone. Thanks.

[SteveTheTech]

After a certain period of time some leaking from the rack and pinions rack seals is not uncommon. However in some states you will have to try to fix this issue to clear state inspections. if the boot is torn you need to replace it if the seal is leaking but the level is not dropping I would (on my personal car, not my wifes though) wait a bit before investing in that repair. However I do not think I would trust a rack assembly that cost only $250. Maybe if it had a warranty.

Caution This repair requires an immediate alignment and reset of the VDC computer and is not recommended for the Do-It-Yourselfers with 2003+ G35s.

[mossman77]

Reset of the VDC computer? What for? Didn't realize there was anything electrical involved with replacing the stearing gear.

[SteveTheTech]

Sorry I should have explained a little better.

The VDC computer uses a steering wheel angle sensor to determine where the front wheels are going. If you replace the steering rack and the steering collar are more than 2 degrees off the abs will activate and go into failsafe.

If you look down at the pinion input you will see a pink paint mark at the ~7 o'clock position. Line that up with the opening on the bottom of the collar and you should be ok but you will still need an alignment not just a visual inspection.

[mossman77]

I understand. Thanks.

[tollboothwilley]

Is it the same procedure with all g35s then?

what tool does the dealership use to calibrate the power steering angle?