M42club.com - Home of the BMW E30/E36 318i/iS

DISCUSSION => General Topics => Topic started by: dvmotorsports on December 21, 2009, 11:50:17 PM

Title: Steering Rack
Post by: dvmotorsports on December 21, 2009, 11:50:17 PM

So I went through the DIY section and all I found was a write up to R&R a rack, but nothing about a rebuild.

Can anyone point me in the right direction for a stock rack rebuild?

Thanks

Title: Steering Rack
Post by: Choking Hazard on December 22, 2009, 12:32:09 PM

I think the reason is that it is easier/ cheaper to by an e36 rack or z3 rack and replace the leaky one.  The design was aledgedly improved...

Title: Steering Rack
Post by: dvmotorsports on December 22, 2009, 01:32:06 PM

That makes sense, but there is only one junkyard here on Oahu. It's slim pickings. So that is why i need to rebuild.

Title: Steering Rack
Post by: bmwman91 on December 22, 2009, 06:48:57 PM

I was looking at rebuilding my rack & almost pulled the trigger.  However, I was told that it takes some very special tools, and since the thing is under immense pressure, ANY scoring of any sealing surfaces would lead to very rapid failure.

I snagged a 1997 Z3 1.9L rack for $220 shipped form http://www.car-part.com last year.  Shipping will be more to HI, but trust me, it is cheaper & easier to find a used one.  E30 racks blow ass anyway, they are flimsy.

Title: Steering Rack
Post by: nickmpower on December 22, 2009, 07:12:05 PM

I have a re manufactured which means that the rack ect is machined so that it is like new. A rebuilt rack simply has its seals replaced. It has about 13k miles on it and the PO spent like $380 on it. Make an offer. the z3 rack is a good upgrade though

Title: Steering Rack
Post by: dwtaylorpdx on December 22, 2009, 10:58:39 PM

If you check out a local hydraulic service shop, they can do pretty much all the tasks to re-seal a rack.
If they feel like it... :)

Dave

Title: Steering Rack
Post by: AcSchnitzer318is on December 22, 2009, 11:59:31 PM

Sorry nothing useful to contribute... I miss HI.  My dad was stationed at Hickam for 8 years.  Haven't been back since he retired... a long time ago.

Title: Steering Rack
Post by: dvmotorsports on December 23, 2009, 12:24:35 AM

Quote from: nickmpower;83433

I have a re manufactured which means that the rack ect is machined so that it is like new. A rebuilt rack simply has its seals replaced. It has about 13k miles on it and the PO spent like $380 on it. Make an offer. the z3 rack is a good upgrade though

Where are you located? I only ask because shipping will be a factor for me. Got laid off from BMW almost two years ago.

Quote from: AcSchnitzer318is;83452

Sorry nothing useful to contribute... I miss HI.  My dad was stationed at Hickam for 8 years.  Haven't been back since he retired... a long time ago.

My wife is stationed at Hickam, otherwise I wouldn't step foot in this state.