I have a 1986 XJ6 power steering rack that is leaking (I know big surprise) but it is only leaking at the tower seal, ends are fine.
I just filled the system with ATF assuming that is what I should run in it and the fluid is running out the top of the tower with the car just sitting there. Engine is not running yet so I cant see how bad it will be with the engine running.
I have found the tower seal for sale online for under $10, is it possible to unbolt the tower from the rack, replace the seal, and re-install the tower without changing the rack function?
Maybe regular PS fluid would leak less? I have always ran ATF in my systems but this is my first jag. Hate to have to spend $300 to rebuild a rack that may be fixable on the bench.

 

Yes.

Two ways I know of, but not done either myself.

Remove the steering shaft connector cotter bolt, slide the coupling off the splines, remove the circlip (fun task apparently) and prise out the seal. Refit new seal, refit circlip etc ,a nd enjoy.

The 2nd is to unbolt the metal pipes, the 3 tower bolts, lift out, up to the bench, do the task, refit in reverse.

 

Its an easy job. Just do as Grant says, however i had to also remove cotter pins inside cabin at base of steering column as well.to get enough clearance to slide the joint off of the rack. DO NOT MOVE WHEELS OR STEERING WHEEL while the two are seperated. Aligning it back up with the cotter pin groove is a pain in the ***.

 

Well Alright then!
It's good to know this can be done by (ahem) "Non Professionals."

The tower seal on that "Brand New" old S3 rack we have Just put into Nix is weeping at that seal. Not a lot mind, but enough to Massively torque off husband if he finds it.
(';')

 

Four thoughts:


1. No big difference between PS fluid and ATF as to leak propensity. I've used both.
in various critters.


2. Lucas PS sealer has stopped minor seeping for some. Caveat, I usually thnk little of snake oils.


3. Is that a circlip or a Cotter pin on the steering shaft?


4. Another forum bounces my posts if I inadvertently use the synonym for the lttle beast of burden???? A typo does it for me??? Yet, the Brit spelling is OK???


Jaguar purring.


A. Old tool box and old tools undergoing derust process. Interesting old stuff. A Yankee drill...


B. Replumbing compressor outlets. Old HF vapor trap and pressure adjusting diaphragm blew out!!!! Ugh, plumbing fitting box failed to yield an appropriate off/on valve? HDWE store to go to this AM. Gee, what else might I acquire?


Carl

 

There are pins holding the tower shaft to the steering column knuckle(well. Bolts with one side shaved, kinda like you would find on older bicycles holding pedal arm onto shaft) and a circlip holding the seal in place.

 

I do recall how pedals on old bikes screwed into the crank. Actually two flats. To fit an open end wrench. I found one of those cheapo bike wrenches in my junk. I gave it to the kid across the street that is just starting to play with bikes.


And, when the pedal fell apart to leave only a shaft for the underside of one's foot to drive the crank. We kept pedaling.


Carl

 

Great news, thank you! I will get a tower seal on order, I will drop the rack out onto the bench for the seal replacement.

 

Replaced the seal awhile ago but should throw up the pics for those interested. I could not do it on the vehicle, I got the c clip off but the washer under it was stuck and would not come off. So I removed the tower cover so I could work on it on the bench.



Tower removed, pinion stayed in place. Note the square cut oring on the base to seal the tower, dont want to damage it.



C clip, spacer, and seal removed.



New seal was installed, then the spacer and clip, then the tower was reinstalled. Worked out great, no more leaks.

 

[QUOTE=Replaced the seal awhile ago but should throw up the pics for those interested. I could not do it on the vehicle, I got the c clip off but the washer under it was stuck and would not come off. So I removed the tower cover so I could work on it on the bench. QUOTE]


Thanks for the details and photos. I'm getting ready to change this same seal. Did you have to undo any cotter pins inside the cabin as mentioned by Darrenmb in order to disconnect the lower steering column from the tower?

Were you able to do most of this from above or below the car? I don't have a catalytic converter on my down pipes, so access from above seems pretty good.

 

Sorry cant help with those questions, my jag IFS is not in a jag, I put it in a 1951 Ford F1 pickup.