Steering rack change

[Stevem099]

Hi all,
My steering rack is leaking so plan to change (maybe next weekend)
Last mot picked up slight play in track rods so will change them, also have power flex steering rack bushes which I'll use, (previous owner supplied) I was just wondering if there's anything else worth changing whilst I'm doing the job?
Cheers
Steve

 

[GrahamS]

You'll be best dropping the subframe so may as well do inner anti roll bar bushes whilst you're at it. They're 25mm and awful to do at any other time. I'd probably leave everything else unless it's causing your greif, it can all be changed another time if needed.

I find it best to unbolt the rack from the front instead of removing the whole bracket from behind. Make sure you've got a thin 32mm spanner (viscous is best) for the tie rods and atleast 200mm cable ties to reattach the rack boots. The ones from B&Q are a perfect length.

Try and douse the cage nuts on the subframe in a lot of plusgas or wd40 for a few days before tackling it. They can stop you in your tracks easily if they bust.

 

[NorthloopCup]

If you remove all the pipes off the steering rack, they will pull out from the wheel arch without the need to drop the subframe.

 

[bloke]

take the drivers side hub off and pull the shaft out as well then do as mark says with the pipes. only takes five minutes to do the hub and shaft but gives you so much more room to work with.

 

[Stevem099]

Brilliant thanks for the advice!
I'll let you know how I get on, got under this morning and gave everything a good soak in wd40,
Thanks again

 

[Stevem099]

Well that was a total ass of a job! Rack now In and (touch wood) working.. Started Saturday finished Sunday!
Surely now I must get to join some sort of "elite steering rack club".. The Rack was leaking right on top seal where input shaft from steering wheel goes!
Next job, top mount bushes on front.. Here's to hoping that's simple!
Thanks again for your help everyone!