GL vs XT-6 steering rack

[XSNRG]

I was curious about the difference in ratios and just happened to have both racks out and side by side

 

The Gl rack is 3.75 turns, 3.25 for the XT-6. The GL rack is more turns but also moves farther overall. I didn't check to see if the steering arm/knuckle attached to the bearing carrier is the same length.

 

I carefully measured the actual distance traveled with the same number of turns.

 

GL rack=3 turns moved the tie rod end 4.875 inches

XT-6 rack=3 turns moved the tie rod 5.5 inches

 

11.37% difference

[TROGDOR!]

The XT-6 uses a cybrid system, which adjusts the ratio based on your speed. It's completely not compatible with the conventional system in a 4cyl Subaru. The PS pump isn't even belt driven.

 

I hear the 4cyl XT rack is a little different as well, and does fit in place of the sedan/wagon rack.

[Turbone]

Apples and oranges. The rack is independant of the pump. I think any PS pump can run the rack, no matter what it came out of. Actually, theres some talk of fitting the cybrid system to earlier Soobs to take some strain off the belt system (and HP). I think XSNRG was thinking in the lines of the 5 lug swap and using the entire rack/hub for a tighter ratio.

[kingbobdole]

One thing you might consider is the seals...

XT-6 Cybrid P/S systems use a more mineral oil based fluid and they really hate the ATF.... Direct swap=leaky rack.

[baccaruda]

i put a remanufactured XT-4 PS rack in my wagon and it bolted right in.

[Turbone]

The complete system should be flushed prior to usage. If you did a complete swap, the pump and rack, no flushing would be necessary. The question now is, will the XT6 rack bolt up to a EA81/82 x-member? The tie rod ends might be a different length also, if used on a EA81. On a EA82 it wouldnt be a problem as you would be doing the 5 lug swap anyways.