Steering Gear box "issues" - Question

[BridgettAnn]

Hello again fine Fellas..

I'm sorry if this is the wrong place to post this, but I tried searching the forum first and couldn't find anything.

We have a really leaky steering gear box in a 1999 KW W900L. Origin of leak is on the side where it attaches to what looks like the frame area. Also the hose going from the box to the pump is leaking where it is attached to the box. Our local KW dealer sells a seal repair kit for about $130 bucks. But they don't do the repair. (send it out?)

My question is: Is it worth it to purchase this seal kit and have it installed on this old of a part... or is it better to just replace the whole gear box?

Also, I was looking for a diagram of the part so that I could explain better what's what.. had no luck finding one. Does anyone know where I might find such a diagram? I don't know the part number.

Thank you in advance.
~BridgettAnn

[bender]

Have the leaks been checked properly by a thorough cleaning followed by running the truck and steering to confirm the leak source. If you know you have a hose leak at the steering gear are you sure the fluid isn't migrating to the mounting area?

In the case that you're already sure of the leak sources you might consider having them price you a rebuilt steering gearbox and labor to install plus the hose replacement.

[jbatmick]

Agree with above. Check for play in the box. At that age, a new box might improve handling, tire wear. Some boxes ain't cheap.

[Shaggy76]

Use brake cleaner and verify leak. Does the box seem loose? If so, get a rebuilt one. If not loose, change seals yoirself. The task is really simple.

If dealer is a good dealer, you can get a diagram from them. Most of those rack and pinion boxes are the same.