steering rack

[menostig]

1. So to replace the rack boots, I have to undo the track rod, does this mean undoing the vertical bit through the steering arm on the upright ?

Also, am following instructions on bump steer removal, says "lock the steering rack in the straight ahead position with two lenghts of alloy angle between the rack casing and track rod nuckle lockout".
2. Are the outermost ends of the rack casing hidden currently by the rack boots ?
3. I assume it means block with suitable alloy lenghts between hidden rack casing end and track-rod lock nut just prior to where it right angles down ?

cheers
Roger

[bigmack]

menostig said:

1. So to replace the rack boots, I have to undo the track rod, does this mean undoing the vertical bit through the steering arm on the upright ? Also, am following instructions on bump steer removal, says "lock the steering rack in the straight ahead position with two lenghts of alloy angle between the rack casing and track rod nuckle lockout". 2. Are the outermost ends of the rack casing hidden currently by the rack boots ? 3. I assume it means block with suitable alloy lenghts between hidden rack casing end and track-rod lock nut just prior to where it right angles down ? cheers Roger

Yes. You'll need to move the boots out of the way and then what I do is measure the distance between the rack casing and the locknut with a vernier caliper to ensure that they are equal distance on either side.I've got a set of digital ones that are really accurate, but the plastic ones will work to. Then you can cut a length of aluminum angle to fit in that space. Falling short of that you can use a couple of squeeze clamps with rubber feet on either side of the rack and lock the rack into position.
Cheers!
-Mack

[menostig]

Bigmack - thanks for your continuing big support. Right, I'm ready to give it a go... tomorrow.

cheers
Roger.

[bigmack]

Get this done and the car will be much more of a Par'tay out on the track!
Cheers!
-Mack

[edfoxuk]

Dont remove the track rod ends, just spin the rack threads out of them.
I've just had to replace my boots on the 98 sport. Mark the flat of the nut and the thread with paint and reassemble with the luck nut in its origonal postion. You can with care get it in the origonal spot and not upset the tracking. Worth getting it checked never the less. Be carefull not to cross thread on reasembly.