My 2002 MC SS with 24k miles is leaking at the adjustment nut on the steering rack, the nut that locks down the backlash stud for setting the rack and pinion backlash. Everything else is dry, but this is seeping a bit and wet around it. Has anyone seen this before and able to fix it without replacing the rack? I assume there is a rubber or metal washer behind the nut that is leaking? I was temped to go to the junk yard and take one apart and see. I also read on the forum to replace the rack you have to drop the rear engine cradle down a bit, does that mean I have to loosen the from bolts a bit as well?

 

Here is some pictures of the leak. I cleaned it off and used some bars leaks power steering fix, never used the stuff before but wow after driving it for several miles the steering was very easy to steer, I always thought it was supposed to have a bit of a stiff steer to it, never was hard to turn just felt a bit stiff. No more leaks so far. I am sure this is just buying me some time for when I will have to replace it. There is never supposed to be power steering fluid in this area, should be grease only in that part of rack. From what I seen in a video fluid is blowing by the spool valve and into the rack gears. Yes there is an o ring behind that nut for a seal but since the car sat for 24 years I am sure the seal has dried up a bit. But for now I am going to leave it.

 

If you can go to the salvage yard and take a junker apart and see what is in there that is a great way to learn how to make repairs. might only need a new seal that you could find on Rockauto or at the salvage yard.