Power Steering Rack Gone??

[Marccus]

'89, 429K

How do you know when to replace the power steering rack?

I have the original rack still on the car. I just replaced the power steering pump about 6 months ago.

But when the tires are pointing right or left starting from a stopped position, I still get that sound and vibration in the wheel.

It's only when the tires are pointing 20 degrees or more from the direction of the car that this occurs.

It's brutal to parallel park!!

Even less of an angle when backing up to maneuver into a parking space.

So, does this mean the rack needs to be replaced???

 

[projectSHO89]

Yep. You've gotten a pretty good lifespan out of the original.

Steve

 

[AREA 91]

It's time for a new rack, and possibly new upper strut mounts.

 

[Marccus]

New struts about 3 months ago.

Just finished water pump.

Haven't done the rod bearings.

But that is next.

But I don't know if I should do them because if I screw up (even if it is easy), I'll spin a rod bearing and that will be it.

And I only have one car and a bike!

 

[AREA 91]

New struts about 3 months ago.

Just finished water pump.

Haven't done the rod bearings.

But that is next.

But I don't know if I should do them because if I screw up (even if it is easy), I'll spin a rod bearing and that will be it.

And I only have one car and a bike!

If you don't change them, you will be in the same boat.

 

[jayro]

But I don't know if I should do them because if I screw up (even if it is easy), I'll spin a rod bearing and that will be it.

And I only have one car and a bike!

I was worried about this before I did mine, but it was very easy. The are some sites (I think the SHOPP site) that has a step by step illastrated guide that is easy to follow.
Wow, you really have over 400K on your SHO!!! That's pretty impressive. I thought mine was starting to get up there with 170k. If the milage you stated is correct, then DEFINATLY do the rod bearings.

Jeremy