I'm having the $teering rack replaced in my car, and they were doing an inspection and said the shifter rod seal was leaking. I found one diy for this for an older Audi, but I can't find the part number at ECS's website, or a diy anywhere for doing this.

Anyone have a part number and/or a diy for this?

2000 A4 B5 ATW 5 spd

Sean

 

I'm about to have my rack replaced this week. Would also like to know more about this. Subscribed.

 

It should be part number 012 301 457 C.

As far as replacing it, I can't imagine doing it with the transmission in the car. I've pulled my shifter linkage out before and don't see how you would access the seal, but maybe someone knows how it can be done.

I'm planning on replacing the seal when I do my clutch.

 

Way easier than you think while in the car. I replaced my clutch and front seals but didn't do that while it was out. Found It leaking shortly after. It will be hard on the ground but with a hoist it's a piece of cake.

 

I'll order the seal and see if i can do it with the car on ramps. BTW, cost on the rack is like 900 and 1750 with labor. you can get cheaper racks and diy, but this looks to be a serious PITA of a job. I needed the car back in a hurry so had to go the more expensive route.

 

$900 for a rack is insane when you can get a fully rebuilt OEM rack from Rack Doctor for less than $250 shipped. I replaced the rack and it was definitely a pain in the butt, but it is doable, wasn't about to spend $1000 on labor to get it done.

 

If I had the time, I'd remove the rack and consider rebuilding it myself. Next option would be a good quality replacement. After a lot of failures over the years with Autozone-quality parts, I'm leery of the cheap parts. But YMMV.

Unfortunately, my situation was that I needed the car, didn't have an alternative, and work situation isn't allowing me the time to work on it. Considering the work is being done by a reputable Audi/VW special shop, using OEM quality parts, and also doing the tie rod ends, I don't think it's outrageous comparatively speaking. But it's a lot of money compared to what you could do it for by myself, no question.