Rack and pinion removal

[Mbice520]

Hoping somebody can share a tip that would save my knuckles. Replacing steering rack in my 2002 4.0L ranger 4x4. It's unbolted and free to come out... But i can't figure out which way it needs to twist to slide out. Should it twist upward then slide toward passenger side? Also, The axle or suspension components don't need to be removed right? Thanks in advance for sharing life lessons.

 

[hondaxr650]

It'll slide towards the passenger side but they are reeeaaally tight. You'll have to rotate the rack forward also which usually involves bending some of the front brake lines slightly to get the rack to clear them. Sometimes removing the bushings and sleeves first will help, you'll need to transfer them to your new rack anyway. You also need to remove the sway bar but nothing else major has to come out. Hope this helps.

 

[Mbice520]

thanks hondaxr650. I suspected bending brake lines was part of the secret. I quick question... how have you had succeeded in getting the bushings and sleeves out with the rack in the car? I've tried prying from below... and using a pipe as a press.. have tapped from above. ain't budging. I can tell you're right and looks like taking those out makes the difference in getting the rack free from the crossmember.

 

[hondaxr650]

I've always been able to just pry them out with a screwdriver but they can be stubborn. Other guys in the shop seem to get the rack out with the bushings still in them but I think it makes it easier with them out. You may have to leave them in there.

 

[Mbice520]

Just posting a follow up to say: Project all done. New rack and pinion installed. Wasn't able to get the bushings out of the old steering rack.. so I just removed the drivers side inner tie rod end and the rack came out easily after that. New one went in fine with the bushings not installed until it was in place. Thanks for the advice. very helpful.