Corroded power steering pipes

Post by **pkm** » 28 Jan 2006, 15:29

Hi,

I was hoping my first post to these forums would be about something other than a problem with my van!

My recently purchased van (1988 1.6 TD, LHD) has developed a pin sized leak in one of the power steering pipes. I think it's the return pipe, and the hole is just above the rear axles.

On closer inspection the pipes are pretty rusty, so I imagine they need to be replaced. I've attempted a jubilee clip & hose bodge, which has slowed the leak down to a fast trickle.

I've got a few questions:

1) Can part of the pipes be replaced - or does the full length need to be done?
2) Will I need to get new pipes from VW, or are they made up to requirements like brake pipes?
3) Does the fuel tank need to come out to replace the pipes?
4) How much damage is being done to the pump & steering gear driving the van with no fluid in it?

Thanks for your help.

Paul

Post by **pkm** » 28 Jan 2006, 17:57

I've just had another look. It's the high pressure line that's knackered - so no surprise that my bodge didn't do much good.

I've googled around a bit & it seems that getting some flexible hoses made up by Pirtek or similar is the easiest solution.

Does anyone know what type & size of fittings are required at each end of the pipes? Or should I just take the ends of the knackered pipe to the shop?

Any answers to my fourth question above would still be apreciated.

cheers,

Paul

Post by **orcecaveman** » 28 Jan 2006, 19:55

Hi Paul
take the whole pipe to your local Pirtek, they will most likely re use the fittings by silversoldering new hose tails on. Ask them to make it up using R7 thermoplastic hose, and ask them to give you some spiral guard to put on the outside. Dont run with no oil in the pump or with the hoses off, I know it sounds obvious, but I had a chap take his hoses off and drive down to me to get new ones made.......result, he needed to get a new pump as well!

Post by **pkm** » 29 Jan 2006, 17:02

Thanks Dave.

Getting the old pipe out in one piece looks pretty imposible. My plan was to use a bit of garden hose to plane a new route for & measure the length of the required high pressure line.

Removing the lines from the pump looks like a bit of a nightmare on a diesel, as the battery shelf makes access tricky. Has anyone out there got any advice on this?

Post by **Aidan** » 29 Jan 2006, 17:25

plusgas and good spanners and patience, be glad it's not a syncro and remove what you can and take that to the nice guys at pirtek.