Power Steering Fluid Leaking From Steering Box

[hx214]

I have a 97' Wrangler. I am leaking power steering fluid from my steering box. It looks like a seal is busted or something. I've never dealt with steering boxes before, does anyone know how bad of a job this would be? Do you have to replace the whole box, or can I take it off and replace the seals?

What exactly goes into replacing this system?

any help would be great!

I was hoping to get by for now by just replacing the fluid when it got low, but I don't know how long that will last. Its like 10 degrees outside and I was hoping to wait until spring, but I might have to do it soon!

Thanks in advance

[hx214]

Nobody has done this one?

I was just wondering if I could change the seal while its still on the jeep, or if I have to pull it off and do a complete rebuild.

HELP!

[tomvid]

No, never came across this. I wouldnt hassle with any seals, I would just replace the whole box. You are looking at about $100 for a remanufactured. Here a link for one on Ebay. I checked, it will fit your vehicle and its only going for $15!

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Jeep-...QQcmdZViewItem

Here is a link to show what other vehicles that have the same part. Pretty sure it will fit.

http://www.partsamerica.com/ProductG...artnumber=1353

[bdiamond69]

pain in the ass. i done everything you could think of to my jeep. i will never rebuild another steering gearbox. just save your self the hassle and buy a remanufactured one.

[hx214]

thanks for the advice guys, that will save me some hassle.

I was going to ask... Can I just yank the power steering pump and change the belt to a belt that's set up for no power steering? I could really care less if I have power steering or not. Would I have any issues doing that? They do make jeep's straight from the factory that don't have power steering, I was just wondering if the steering fluid lubed something that needs to have lube.

Thanks again for any heads up!

[fredjacksonsan]

I don't know if the 97 had a no power steering option or not. You'd have to replace the steering box in any event, the effort (not to mention safety) of having to turn a power steering box without power assist is huge.

Best off replacing the unit.

However, if you can locate the leak, you may want to try a different tactic. I had an older car that was leaking power steering fluid. I found the cheapest stuff I could get to refill (Advance Auto brand) until I could work on it. After refilling for a month or so, the leak stopped! Either the gunk that was making the seal hard and allowing the leak was removed, or the constant stream of fresh fluid softened the seal back up. At a couple bucks per bottle, it may work for you also. Just a thought, if you haven't replaced the unit already.