Manual steering rack replaced - thoughts on keeping the old one

[82vdub]

Ole 82 needs the steering rack replaced. It's a manual steering rack. For the $20 core charge for the old one, should I keep the old one? I really don't need another worn out part hanging around, but does anyone know if it's easily rebuildable? I thought the right inner tie rod was shot, so I brought it to a guy and he said the end of the steering rack is worn out. Just looking to get some thoughts.

[Fatmobile]

Check ebay for the plastic bushing that gets shoved into that side.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/VW-DELRIN-MK1-S ... 4b&vxp=mtr
Easy fix.

[82vdub]

Is that all there is to a fix for these? The steering rack was replaced once about 15 years ago, so I don't think it's an OEM rack. I wonder if the rebuilt one that's going in there is OEM or a rebuilt aftermarket one....... Makes one think.

[vwtyp133]

... I wonder if the rebuilt one that's going in there is OEM or a rebuilt aftermarket one... .

Or, maybe just another 'junk yard survivor' that's been steam-cleaned, rattle-can painted, labeled & boxed? Could be difficult to spot the difference sometimes, but that type of 'supply chain' sourcing is quite common, from the scuttle I've heard. YMMV

Might not hurt to somewhat disassemble the old one, just to see what really does get worn. Knowledge is precious; tuition is never really free.