Hi, everyone,

I have an '87 760GLE with 190k miles on it. I posted a question regarding steering rack boots replacement a week ago and decided to take it to the shop to put the boots on. The shop just called to mention that the rack and pinion on the passenger side need to be replaced because fluid is leaking from the rack. I noticed the fluid is leaking but don't know where the leaking is from. The shop quoted me $900 for replace the whole set (with labor) including two inner tie rods, two steering rack pinions and rack boots plus an alignment. They insisted that the parts that they ordered come in as a whole set. They said it will cost me more if they install the new racks onto the old tie rods the car has now. By the way, they refuse to install a rebuilt rack and pinion from a shop like J.A.C Rack. I have taken my Volvo to this shop for different repairs. But this one is making me really suspicious. I don't know where they are ordering these parts from. A dealer in Houston can sell me only the rack and pinion.

My questions are:

1. Is this a rip-off? Do I need to change two racks at the same time?

2. Please allow me to ask this one again: Is there any special tool involved
to replace the rack and pinion on my car? How to do it?
I have a Haynes manual for 740/760. It says a ball joint separator is
needed to removed the tie rod end. I have checked around and could not
find a store will rent that kind of tools. That is why I decided to take
it to the shop.

3. It is not leaking very badly at this time, and car is not complaining
when making any turns. I will keep a close eye on the fluid level in the
reservoir. I realized I need to have rack replaced soon. Is there
any other thing I should be aware of while driving the car?

4. What is the symptom(s) that the rack needs immediate attention?

Thanks in advance.

Joseph
'87 760GLE