I was changing the oil on my new to me 96 Accord LX and noticed that both the rack boots were torn (passenger side totally torn apart). There is some fluid around the torn boot area. Do you think the seals have been damaged? I know how to replace the boots but want to know if I should replace the whole rack also becuse Im not sure how long it has been like this. Note the car steers just fine and makes no noise.

 

You can take a chance & replace the boots. The risk is that dirt has gotten inside & "someday" the hydraulic seals will leak. Maybe you can get a real good look inside & see whether it's very clean.

That is... if you don't mind the risk that within a few months or a year, you might have to replace the rack. If you don't like that risk, then you better replace the rack now. Personally I'd do the boots & take the risk since I'm not a shop that works on customer cars. Just risking a waste of my own time for the boots now.

 

The risk sounds fine...I will have to get it done very soon as I have to drive my car down at the coal docks...very dusty..are there any tools to make this replacement easier

 

Maybe a crimping tool for the hoseclamps that go around the rubber boots. But you can also use nylon wire-ties for that.

 

Sounds good..now if it would just stop raining...LOOL