Power steering input shaft leak

[Pyrotechnic]

I noticed that there is fluid dripping off of the steering box. It looks like it's coming from the top where the input shaft it. The steering box works fine otherwise, is it possible just to replace that seal without tearing into the box ? Anyone ever dealt with this before ?

[Restrorob]

It's been a few years since I left the auto biz but seems that top seal can be replaced without a major tear-down.....

[mrh33916]

I just recently did that exact thing. I bought a seal kit from Advance Auto Parts for 9 bucks and replaced the seals on the input shaft.

After removing the steering knuckle there is a snap ring down in there that must be removed.

The first seal you will see is a dust cover, remove it and the actual seal is below it, just be careful prying out the old seal than re-install everything.

The kit I used even came with a diagram of the entire steering box.

I've been told that if the steering box has excessive play in the bearings on the input shaft the whole unit needs to be replaced but mine seemed to be fine.

[Pyrotechnic]

Thanks guys. I'm going to try some Lucas power steering stop leak first, but if that doesn't work I'll go ahead and try the seal.

Can I just wiggle the steering knuckle with my hand to check for excessive play ?

[mrh33916]

Yes, That's what I did. I don't know what the tolerance should be but when I wiggled the shaft back and forth mine only had a slight wiggle similar to a wheel bearing or alternator bearing,