My AU ute is leaking from the left side of the steering rack where the left arm is inserted...have read few things about it possibly being just a seal?? Any one tell me how to find out if it's a "seal" or if I need a new rack?? The steering boot has torn off too

It'll most likely be a seal and/or O ring.
If the bellows is torn, rubbish has gotten to the area, so the rack shaft might have wear damage as well - they typically should be a mirror finish.

Only thing is you normally have to dismantle the rack to get to all of that to inspect it.