I got in a T-bone collision with my 85 Vanagon with Power Steering (a year ago...van is in final stages at body shop).  My Passenger Side tie rod is bent.  Would you say that in general the tie rod is designed to be the "weakest link"; that is, it will deform but sacrificially protect the Power Steering Rack?  Replacing a tie-rod and both inner link to rack and outer link to steering knuckle seems to be pretty straightforward, and there are several YouTube videos describing the step-by-step procedure.  Also, tie rods and ends are quite inexpensive compared to a Power Steering Rack.  I have not seen any fluid leaks from rack, but of course the tie rod end is covered with a rubber boot; also I have not heard or felt any funny noises when driven.  I suppose I could first fix the bent tie rod first....and then watch and wait to determine if Power Steering Rack was damaged.  Advice?