ok, first things first, i just got my licence, and i accelerated a bit too much around a corner, i lost control, and went up a curb. i know i am stupid, and scared to drive my car now, so ive learnt a lesson. i just want my car fixed.

ok where the pinion joins the steering rack, there is a plug that screws into the bottom, i assume this is where the fluid is kept, going up the curb i seem to have knocked off part of the threaded area and the plug, and maybe more.

what can i do?
how hard is it to install a new one, whats involved, should i get a new one, or from a wreckers, should i get it put in professionally, can i drive with it like this without doing too much damage. i dont have alot of money working casual, so i want a quick and not too expensive fix.

thanks, Ken.

hi ken

by the look of it, the rack is f**k, get it replaced, preferably reconditioned if not new, but if $$ are that tight, take a chance on one from a wreckers

installation depends on your mechanical abilities, but you'll need to take it to a mechanic/suspension shop for a wheel alignment

Hey Ken

You must have curbs the same as over here.
My old man told me you’re allowed one dumb mistake like that to teach you how expensive it can be to fix cars, but two mistakes is just plain stupid.

I made mine much the same as you. It cost me about $400 for a secondhand rack and to reco it and fit it.
I could have put the secondhand one in without reco'ing it but decided not to.

At least I learnt things about the car while fitting it but I know what the old man means now.

yeah try to hunt a reco'd one at least.
you'll be taking a chance with a wreckers item.

reco rack $250+
install $100ish
whell allignment $25+

can do install yourself, takes about 2 hours at home, you'll need just the nowmal tools nothing special, an extra pair of hands especially when installing new one is recomended.

I can help you fit the rack or fit it for you. s/h is ok as long as it dont leak and the rack ends are good. email is matthew5772@hotmail.com

thanks alot everyone, great advice. car was put into my dads mates repair shop, for a reco'd steering rack, got quoted 260. found out i had dodgy brake rotors (brake pedal shuddering) and one of the hubs had movement up and down and side to side, so a bunch of new brake stuff going in at the price of 500, so im in for 760 dollars worth of repairs. no more silly mistakes hopefully.
ps FORD WON THE CLIPSAL 500.