Is this a problem? (Did I blow a gasket in my power steering rack?)

[shackf16]

So I have been making some progress on my Mk 3.1 "re-build", and this week I got the solid offset bushings installed as well as the rack extenders. I cut the outer tie rods a little shorter, and when I pulled the driver's side boot off, it had a ton of fluid and part of what looked like a plastic bushing? Can anybody tell me if my rack needs to be replaced or if things are fine? Next steps are routing brake lines for the ABS module then new wiring harness and new engine, so I have some time to get things sorted out.

Thanks!
Shack

[David Williamson]

there should be no oil in the boots, not an expert but it sure looks like a blown seal
David W

[edwardb]

Agreed. Shouldn't be any fluid in the boots. Haven't ever taken one apart so don't know what the seals look like. But that floating plastic part isn't a good sign. Certainly don't put it back together and use it without figuring out what is happening. I suspect you're doing to need a new rack.

[rich grsc]

That one's done, thankfully they aren't that expensive.

[CraigS]

Autozone #s for 91 Mustang racks;
#6406; 3.0 turns lock to lock
#6439; 2.5 turns lock to lock
#64163 2.25 turns lock to lock
It's always good to take a small vise grip w/ you to check the T to T because the rebuilders don't seem to care and they are often wrong.