new (or at least less used) rack and pinion install, hints...

[pyro926]

I have over a 1/2inch of play on the left tire. The top of the tie rod wiggled bad. I picked up a lightly used rack from aarons auto in Seattle and it looks to be in great shape.

 

Anyone have any tips hints or wise words to give on the install of this thing?

I have never messed with the steering in anything, so this is new to me.

 

Thanks

[GeneralDisorder]

Sorry to tell you but the tie rod screws off of the rack. It's called the "inner" tie rod ball joint. You don't have to change the rack out, you just need to replace the tie rods themselves. Peel the boots back and you will see.

 

GD

[[HTi]Johnson]

I agree with GD, but there's no need to be sorry.

 

But since, you got the rack already...you could install it, unless you can return it for a refund.

 

Either route, alignment is needed afterwards.

[pyro926]

Johnson']I agree with GD' date=' but there's no need to be sorry.

 

But since, you got the rack already...you could install it, unless you can return it for a refund.

 

Either route, alignment is needed afterwards.[/quote']

 

Well, alignment is needed anyway. They wanted $1200 to fix everything and align it. They (the alignment shop) said with out replacing the rack and struts, I'd be better off just kicking the tires strait. I want to put new rubber on it but need to align it first. I don't know what "NEEDS" to be done and what can wait until funds are available. :-\ This is not a power rack btw.....

[idosubaru]

racks are very easy if you end up replacing it. keep in mind you'll want to keep your steering wheel lined up straight when you install the rack. as soon as you disconnect the steering linkage from the rack it'll just flop around and you'll have to line it back up properly. do this before you snug everything up because that linkage doesn't come back off easily.

[Gloyale]

This is not a power rack btw.....

 

I can't understand why it would need replaced? No Power so it can't be leaking. I'd just change the inner and outer tierods. Then if there is any play in the rack, it will just show as wheel play but at least the 2 wheels will be fixed to each other relatively and could be aligned. New ball joints may be needed to. I think the struts would have to be pretty bad before it would be impossible to align, but wouldn't hurt.