Steering rack? Normal to have fluid around seals?

[az_240]

So I was looking at my steering rack because I'm about to replace the tie rod boot and noticed there is a small amount of fluid right around the seals where the inner tie rod connects to the rack.

Fluid level seems normal... I've always used Mobil 1 auto tranny fluid.

Is this a sign my power steering rack is about to take a shit and leak fluid all over in my tie rod boots or is it normal?

Any info on where to find a HICAS rack?

I will also be replacing the engine cross member soon due to damage. Do I have to completely remove the steering rack to get the new cross member in or can I leave the lines hooked up and work around it?

Thanks

[midnight_rex]

there are companies out there that make re-manufactured rack and pinions like A1 Cardone. i recently purchased one for my s14 and i know they have a HICAS rack available for the s13 because my local auto part store accidentally ordered one for me lol.

as for the crossmember and steering rack, u can leave the lines hooked to the rack and have it supported without the crossmember. since you're going to replace the rack and pinion, maybe, just uninstall the steering rack. knock out 2 birds with one stone.

[az_240]

^I only want to do that if my current rack is on its way out. If a small amount of fluid is normal then I won't worry about it.

I've heard of people trying to get remanufactured HICAS racks from places online/local auto stores only to find out it's a regular rack. That's why I asked about the HICAS rack.