torn steering shaft boot

[Pistons23]

i was looking at my brakes today and i noticed that the rubber boot at the end of the steering shaft was torn. its letting moisture get in. when i hosed down my engine bay after spilling antifreeze all over i noticed a clicking/tapping vibration coming through the steering wheel. but it was gone the next day. so im assuming that was caused by water getting in there. i dont even know how to address this issue, so any feedback would be gladly apreciated. thanks

 

[Captain Ledd]

is it the on the shaft (like what drives the wheel) or on the arm?

The arm may be able to be replaced at many autoparts stores, they sell replacement boots for things. There's a good chance one can work (if it's not too late) and they're not expensive.

If it's the shaft (this is the 2000 in your profile yes?) it may be a bit more complicated. I believe those have CV joints on those and when they go bad (like getting water in them by a torn boot) they will often click.

 

[Pistons23]

im not sure if its the shaft or the arm. ill have to take a better look today. but its down towards where the shaft connects connects to the steering rack.

and yes this is on a 2000 ranger

 

[Captain Ledd]

ahhh! that boot. If it's on the steering part then there are some options. If it's out by the wheel then the autoparts store should have some kind of replacement, very easy, basic tie rod replacement boot. Rent a pitman arm puller while your there, push out the tie rod end from the side the nut was on.

Now if it's the inner boot like towards the interior of the vehicle/attached to the rack itself, I have no idea, might have to wait for someone else to chime in on that one.

 

[Pistons23]

ok heres a pick i found of a explorer shaft

thats the boot im talking about. i think its called the intermediate shaft. im going to spray that bad boy with some wd40 today and hope that bandaids it until this summer.

 

[Crunchy]

What do you mean by clicking sensation?

Like when you grab the shaft with your hand you can shake it a bit (ie: loose)?

I have the same problem. For me its the pinch bolt getting worn out, so its not a nice tight fit anymore. Its a common problem.

The replacement shaft, well, you get "shafted" in the price, its something like $180 new, and a junk yard will only sell you the whole steering column (steering wheel and all) for like $300.

I am thinking about filling in the pinch bolt area with some type of epoxy putty to remove the looseness, but I am still thinking about it to see if that will be a bad idea in the long run.

There is also a type of u-joint/cv joint in there, and if its that which is loose, you might just have to replace or get used to it.

But damn, it feels just like a worn out tie rod!

 

[Pistons23]

no there doesnt seem to be any play, i just think that moisture/dirt is getting in that joint.

you might try one of those pull it yourself junkyards and go for just the intermediate shaft. otherwise try rockauto.