Steering rack leak

I was under my truck installing running boards on my 05 DC this morning, and noticed some fluid leaking from the steering rack. It seems like it’s just a bad washer on the flange bolt pictured here. Anybody out there ever replaced one of these? It’s only $20 in parts if that’s the only problem, but I’ve read some old posts that say steering racks are harder than they seem. Wondering if I’m better off just taking this to a mechanic

 

Your leak looks like it might be coming from the top of the rack since I see fluid on the top as well.

My steering rack is seeping fluid from this point.

.


In your picture are you referring to this part? This is a mounting point and it won't leak there. The destroyed part is the steering rack bushing and it needs replacing.

 

Yes that’s what I’m referring to. Thanks for the explanation. I’m a bit of a novice.
Is that bushing easy to replace? Is this leak something that needs to be addressed if I’m not having any steering problems?

 

"

The leak, I'd determine how much it's leaking over a period of time. The proper way to fix it is going to buy a brand new OEM rack from a dealer. Mine is at the point where it's just seeping and I have to top it off with PS fluid/ ATF every so often. Just don't let the PS fluid get too low otherwise it will fry the bearings in the pump. Trans fluid is much cheaper than a steering rack, if you're not experiencing any steering problems.

The bushings can be replaced in your driveway without even lifting the truck off the ground. There are three bushings/ mounting points. The center mount takes a bit more effort. People often go with Total Chaos or Energy Suspension polyurethane bushings (like myself).

This is a straightforward video on how to change the bushings:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JafzubwihDM

 

The bushings are on. I thought the rough steering was just cause the truck was a bit old, but it’s buttery smooth now most of the time. Thanks for the tip!

Steering is still is a bit rough for a few blocks when the truck is cold but it gets better quickly. I also noticed there’s some shaking in the front end when I drive from a dead stop while turning either way. It is smooth if I start straight ahead. Any suggestions on what that can be? I don’t want to start taking things apart if it’s not some that’s gonna get worse or cause other problems