Need a rack and pinion 96 855t Topic is solved

[rguzz]

I'm aware the options aren't great for replacement and or rebuild but it's that or part/sell the car as is which would be also a bad thing. Skandix-de, maybe or better yet decent options here in USA? I could send mine out for a rebuild if I thought that might be best it's OEM Volvo still in the car. Please advise, thanks. I also realize this topic has been nearly beaten to death, but you never know...

[abscate]

I think all p80 racks are the same for FWD cars?

I have done a couple of Detroit axle racks off eBay without ptoblems

[rolsen11]

What are the typical signs and symptoms of a failing steering rack in these cars? I'm curious if mine has them.

[abscate]

They rarely fail in function, the seals go and you lose oil. You can run a Volvo with out power steering bypassing the PS pump or just let it run out and lube it with 50-100ml of oil weekly to keep the pump happy. Run that out at the EPA directors house since he likes pollution

[scot850]

I think the 850's all used the same rack. Can't recall if it is the SMI one. I seem to recall Robert DIY doing a video on this. It was around 97 that there was the 2nd option is my memory is correct.

The steering rack obviously can fail. The end seals leak and fill the 2 boots with oil. Leaks from the steering column top seal is less common.
There were kits out there for some racks and the driver's side end seal can be replaced in place I recall reading. Not sure why the passenger side cannot.

Notchy steering feel is one issue you can feel or inconsistent feel while turning.

Before writing a rack off, check the outer tie rods are not bad, but also the bearing at the bottom of the steering column can get tight as can the universal joint at the bottom.

Neil.

[abscate]

Here’s the I bought during 2021

https://www.amazon.com/Detroit-Axle-Com ... +Volvo+V70

I’ve done three of these. For $225 you get the rack and the tie rods so no
Worries about matching pieces

[Clemens]

I think the 850's all used the same rack. Can't recall if it is the SMI one. I seem to recall Robert DIY doing a video on this. It was around 97 that there was the 2nd option is my memory is correct.
Neil.

I have that second theory stored somewhere in my mind as well... TRW and SMI, I think

[abscate]

A bit of confusion to sort here.

There are two makers of racks, TRW and SMI

Both will fit and can be used on any p80 chassis

If you change the rack, but re-use the tie rods, you have to match the right tie rods to the rack

However, don’t look at your tie rods to determine which rack you have , as TRW makes tie rod ends for both !

SMI racks have a hexagon cap st the bottom of the pinion, the end of the shaft attached to the steering wheel

TRW racks have a rounded cap

Confirm above

[Chuck W]

Folks have been having good luck with the AAE brand steering rack on RockAuto. It's new, not remanufactured.

[scot850]

Thanks for letting us know about this brand Chuck. Interesting that they list the FWD and AWD with different racks. Are they different?

Neil.