Steering Rack Rebuild...Tool needed

[E_Swift]

I'm in the midst of rebuilding the steering rack to function properly as a manual unit, which requires removal of the power seals deep in the bowels of the rack.

Problem is, a farily specialized tool is seemingly needed to remove the ring nut that holds the rack together (see picture, part # 19). If I had a welder available, creating a tool would have been a non-issue.

Anyone know where such a tool could be obtained? I haven't gotten anywhere on RealOEM (although I am not sure tools are databased) and don't know where to start with ZF...

I imagine this tool is fairly common to rebuilding ZF racks of this vintage. I did find a similar VW tool, but not the correct size.

Any ideas? Anyone else even attempt to rebuild their rack before?



Thanks,

[elcortez]

The tool you're after is a Cartool with the partnumber: 32 1 110

It should be obtainable through your local BMW parts dealer.

As i remember it's not expensive.

BTW. Do you have the BMW service manual? it does contain usefull information about this process

[E_Swift]

Steffen, thanks - looks like I'm off to the dealer tomorrow.

I do have the service manual with the procedure, which is where I obtained the pictures above.

Cheers,

[Bryan]

I've been wanting to convert mine to manual too. Right now I have the pump removed with some power steering fluid blocked off in the rack.

How difficult is the process? What are the benefits of removing the seals, less force required to turn the rack? It looks like I need to pick up a service manual.

[E_Swift]

Local dealer will not get me the tool.

Emailed Cartool, who promptly responded with an out of office reply...

Any other ideas?

Bryan - The process would be easy if I either had this tool, a welder, or a Bridgeport mill. Hence if I still had access to FSAE facilities, there wouldn't be any issues.

I wouldn't say that this procedure is necessary, it just seems to me that there is no reason to push hydraulic fluid back and forth with a piston when it isn't doing anything. Plus, the grease will be far less likely to leak out...

cheers,

[hardtailer]

search zdmak.com or sirtools.com with the exact same BMW tool number, you'll probably find it there.
cartools doesnt sell to private individuals, not even to non-authorized workshops.

[Matts M3]

I believe this is your tool. It says it is only applicable to E30's.

http://zdmak.com/wbstore/main.asp?ac...BMW3031&CTMP=1

I will be converting my E36 rack to manual steering, I wonder where I can find a service manual for rebuild that rack to manual specifications.

Matt