05 pre-runner Grease buildup on my pinion..normal?

Hey all, I was under the truck checking out my motor mounts and they look fine. But the pinion going in to the steering rack has thick dried grease on it from the rack all the way up to the u-joint. Any idea what this may be from? Are there grease fittings on the steering assembly? Will post a few pics tomorrow.

 

Ok, here is a pic of the pinion going into the steering rack. looks like something is/was leaking. You can see where I wiped some of the grease off(clean spot). Any ideas of the cause/fix? Is there a seal there? is that just plain grease? Feels like it. Doesnt seem like power steering fluid, unless its old and degraded.

the 2nd pic is my steering pinion going up through my dash. Looks like that rubber seal fell down. Any tricks to making it stay put?

Thanks!

 

Anyone got any ideas? Looks like it starts right at that ujoint and gets lighter as it goes towards the rack. Dont want to have any major issues if a simple re-lube can prevent it.

Thanks

 

could be grease from the u joint on the steering shaft,i think its normal.

 

Ok, thanks. I see all of the "motor mount failing" pics and everyones steering shafts look spotless. Mine is covered with grease. Thats my only concern.

 

Subscribed... Will keep and eye on this on my '09.