POWER RACK & PINION STEERING GEAR FLUID LEAK

MODELS AFFECTED: 1989 CENTURY, REGAL, LESABRE, ELECTRA/PARK AVENUE, RIVIERA AND REATTA --------------------------------------------------

A number of changes to the end take off steering gear have been made during the 1989 model year to address external leaks. These changes are detailed below:

* A new high temperature inner rack seal was introduced on all series except Regal in January, 1989. Regal started with this design in the 1988 model.

* Enhanced assembly installation of the outer bulk head seals to reduce seal damage, implemented in March, 1989.

* Drive screw sealing method changed in May, 1989, to reduce possibility of water entry and rack corrosion in seal areas.

* Redesigned boot clamps for enhanced sealing at gear in November, 1988, to reduce possibility of water entry in seal areas.

* Increased rack surface finish in seal areas to reduce leak potential.

* Saginaw Division and its vendors are involved in various ongoing quality enhancement programs.

HOW TO ADDRESS FLUID LEAKS

If a customer has commented about having to add fluid and/or external leaka e of power steering fluid, and a substantial amount of fluid is in the boot(s), then the steering gear should be replaced.

If fluid has not accumulated in the boot(s), other causes for the leakage must be determined and corrected. Refer to the recently released video and technical guide furnished to all dealers on the "Rack and Pinion Steering Systems" for diagnostic assistance. Some leak causes to check for are:

* Hoses, lines and connections -- check for proper routing, assembly ard torque -- replace hose or line assembly, correct torque, or replace line 0 ring and correct torque as required.

* Rotary valve seal for leak - install bearing assembly service kit with seal. Refer to Service Bulletin 89-3-17.

* Pump and/or reservoir areas for leaks - replace appropriate failed part.

* Gear housing for porosity - replace gear.

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.