I have an 1989 cavalier z24 that i have put a lot of time and money into fixing repairs. My latest problem is the power steering rack. Lately the reservoir drains all the way down and I get this loud whining noise when the rack has no fluid. It has progressed to the point that it leaks out of the fittings on the rack and the around the cap. If i put some fluid in it will drain right out.

So I need a new rack. I talked to a couple guys and they said that I shouldn't attempt this without the right tools (cherry picker etc...). They quoted about $700 installed. Is it any easier to install a manual steering rack into this car? Is that something that I can do myself? Does a manual steering rack cost more than a powered one?

Anything else i should look into? Thanks for the help.

-matt

Look through a Chilton's to see if you could tackle it. Haven't needed to on my 'Fire yet, but doesn't look too difficult. Involved, but managable over a weekend by a casual mechanic.