7 replies to this topic

[Elwyn]

Hello

 

I've seen a few online videos showing how to fill up a steering rack with gear oil

 

Including new steering racks

 

The Mini Spares website says something like, "most new steering racks are filled with grease, but you need 2 oil seals for older racks"

(not those exact words)

 

Getting to the point....

 

For a new Mini Spares steering rack, does it need filling with gear oil or is it ready to fit to the car as it comes out of the box?

 

If I do fill it with gear oil, will it leak because it's not got the oil seals that are intended for older, oil-filled steering racks?

 

I've opened up the "top up" hole using an Allen key to have a look and everything inside is dry

Grease-free 

 

Thanks in advance

 

Regards

 

Elwyn

[nicklouse]

Ready to fit from the box.

[Elwyn]

Lots of threads / discussions on here and elsewhere on line repeatedly referring to oil.
Either filling up through or at a gaiter or using the centralising port with the Allen key cover.
Are the gaiters full of grease but the central rack is dry?
The exploded view of the rack on mini spares dot com shows an oil seal (88G499), again suggesting it needs oil?
I am always confused

Edited by Elwyn, 20 June 2021 - 10:38 AM.

[nicklouse]

No the bellows are not full of grease or oil. But it is where it needs to be. 
 

production changed from oil to grease due to leaks.

 

if you wish to add oil you put it in via the drive side bellow but into the rack.

 

but not needed as they are ready to use from the box.

[PoolGuy]

The Mini rack can’t be much different from the one in my van, they were originally specced with oil, then changed to grease. The most useable option imo is semi fluid grease, this reaches all areas of the rack, doesn’t sit in one place in cold weather and doesn’t leak out of the boots. This is the one that I use, http://penriteclassi...ering-box-lube/

[Elwyn]

Thanks all

The oil seal (88G499) is presumably a repair part for older, oil filled racks then

[T.Harper]

Just to add to this - I have a new rack.  Filled with oil as per lots of posts on here, and it leaks .  Guess I'll get it fitted and then slap in some grease another day...

[bpirie1000]

Elbow grease added....

Always a job to do on a mini- why i have numerous.. keeps me from being under the wifes feet....