Time for a Steering rack

[xjaugie]

So, I think I have found out why my power steering pumps on my 95 Tacoma begin to whine shortly after install....Looks like the sterring rack maybe in need of replacement. I was under the truck yesterday and noticed the pass. side steering boot was ripped and things seem to be going dry inside. Looks like an easy fix? Just expensive. How is it to yank it out on my back in the driveway?

 

[cruiseroutfit]

Ends are available separately for the Tacoma, as are the boots. Does your rack have excess play, discounting play in the tie rod ends themselves?

 

[xjaugie]

Not so much play in the system as being "sticky"

 

[AxleIke]

Just did this on my 99 4runner. Pretty straight forward. My recomendation would be to buy a set of polyurethane bushings to go with it. Toytec sells a set for around 20 dollars. Also, pull all the bolts out, then re-install the long bolt on the driver side in reverse (so pull it out from the front, and stick it in from the back). Then, pull the rack out enough that you can get to the lines, and loosen them. I found that the bolt being installed was very useful in providing a counter against the wrench twist when loosening the lines. Also, I found it easier to disconnect the rag joint from the steering rod, rather than the rack, and then remove the joint from the rack once it was out of the truck.

However, if it is "sticky", when was the last time you had an alignment? Bad caster can cause the wheel to feel "sticky" because you are turning against the surface of the road.

Cheers!

 

[xjaugie]

Axleike,

Thanks for the advise. I wish it was a alingment issue, but with the torn boot and general wear and tear age on the truck, I think it is time for a replacement. I was wandering about doing the bushings, might as well do while it is apart. Wheel'n this weekend, then I'll tear it down between duck and deer hunts in the next few weeks.

 

[washington taco]

I replaced my rack with the one Safari LTD sells great unit!

http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/threads/75286-Front-steering-suspension-rebuild

Here is a link to my front end rebuild.

 

[xjaugie]

I replaced my rack with the one Safari LTD sells great unit!

http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/threads/75286-Front-steering-suspension-rebuild

Here is a link to my front end rebuild.

I guess I should learn to use the search on the site...LOL Great write up, how has it worked since the install? Looks like I'll be going that route. But then it will mean I will re-install the tundra calipers, but to do that I need new wheels from Wheelers, Boy oh boy is this going to get expensive....:friday:

 

[Box Rocket]

I replaced my rack with the one Safari LTD sells great unit!

http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/threads/75286-Front-steering-suspension-rebuild

Here is a link to my front end rebuild.

Looking at different racks myself since I need to replace mine. Would you mind offering some feedback on the Safari Rack since you've had it a while now? Any issues at all?

 

[washington taco]

It has been about a year and half 17,000 trouble free miles. This truck is only driven for ski trips or off road so not easy miles. I had allignment done when first completed and again last fall after purchasing new tires. Between the two allignments there was no change or issues.

 

[the kid]

i too have a safari rack, and at 265k+ mi it was time to replace some stuff in the front end(read everything) i opted for a safari rack and love it. no complaints at all -i also did the poly rack bushings as well as poly LCA bushings...

 

[AxleIke]

I replaced my rack with the one Safari LTD sells great unit!

http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/threads/75286-Front-steering-suspension-rebuild

Here is a link to my front end rebuild.

Seems like their site has an issue currently, but what do they do over an OEM rack that makes it better or different? I was trying to find out but could not get any link or information on what they do to the rack.

Thanks!

 

[xjaugie]

From what I've picked up with my reading is that the Safari rack has brass bushings, whereas the OEM from rock auto has the standard poly bushings. I figure the OEM lasted for 200,000 miles, seems good enough for me, but still looking into it.

 

[washington taco]

I called the actual manufacture of the rack and they stated they use a differant metal alloy for the rack. I dont have the contact info for them anymore but safari LTD can give it to you.

 

[xjaugie]

Well that makes a difference...Hummm