Blew out a rebuilt rack in only 10 mos/4k miles! Tire PSI?

[98V70T5]

Last Oct. I paid to have my rack replaced. I used a local auto parts store, as they are highly recommended and local shops use them for rebuilt hydraulics (racks, calipers, master cylinders, p/s pumps). I cannot provide the name brand of the rack I used, but I will look for the receipt. 90day warranty on parts.

Well 2 weeks ago I heard a groaning noise, and the p/s pump was dry and added fluid. Then last week, I had to fix a flat tire. As the car was jacked up on the right side, a big puddle of red fluid began pouring out of the left front steering boot. I couldn't believe it! I just spent $600 last year on a rack/alignment/new tie rod ends, and now this rack is shot.

Called FCP, Volvo doesn't make NEW units anymore, and a Volvo stamped rebuilt one is $850. I am really really close to dumping this car on a trade. I just can't believe I'm in the same position as last year, with no alternatives. I would have bought a new rack, but one isn't offered, only rebuilds.

What options are there to buy a good quality rack? Also, I was playing with tire pressures the last few months, and was warned by some members here to NOT run lower than Volvo recommended settings, as you will BLOW OUT THE RACK! A senior member here said that would be impossible, but who knows.

Sell it, fix it, dump it? What should I do? I'm in a really good financial position now, and could just dump the car for 3k on a trade, fix it and hope it lasts more than 10 months, or what will happen next? Its sad because this car is MINT inside and out, silver with black leather, and has been dealer serviced up to 100k miles (has 115k now) religiously by the previous owner. I have a stack of receipts from him. If the body or interior were trashed, I would dump it, but its just too nice, and I really like driving it. I fit well (I'm 6'1") and love the seats and headroom.

Thanks

[sailsimplicity]

Join the group bought chinese unit from FCP blew out in 4 mos. ordered rebuilt sen me that 1. Bought used unit from toms of waterbury perfect.

[JRL]

The old FCP racks were rebuilt in the USA and were fine
Now they're using Chinese rebuilt racks, use at your own risk

[98V70T5]

I have read that they are now Chinese made via the search function, but what realistic alternatives are there to a rebuilt rack? I literally changed my oil once since then, and 1000 miles later the rack blew. I would have never guessed the rack wouldn't have lasted two oil changes! Also, I had an OEM timing belt/water pump done at the same time as the rack, with the hopes of keeping the car to 200k! All new suspension pieces (shocks, springs, mounts, etc).

[erikv11]

I recently had to replace the steering rack. I went with Jorgen Auto, they rebuild them here in the US. The rack seems like quality but I haven't had it in the car very long.

Here is a thread with some options for rebuilt units:
http://volvospeed.com/vs_forum/topic/14 ... msearch__1

EDIT: I have since read good things on this forum about Maval racks.