Steering Rack replacement

[TimmyJimSho]

Just wondering if there was anyone out there who had done (or attempted) a rack replacement. I heard they are a bitch and mega expensive. I'm just trying to get a sense of the job, to see if I want to attempt it, or just let my mechanics handle this one.

Thanks

Timmy

 

[Dr. Tweak]

Do a search, there was a post by sdpatt that was very good, he did the job not long ago...

 

[SHOfun 93]

Yep...and said he would NEVER do it again!

 

[TimmyJimSho]

Thanks guys;

I see he liked the job as much as a hole in the head.

I'll definately think this one over

 

[projectSHO89]

It becomes a LOT easier if you drop the rear of the subframe a few inches....

Steve

 

[NotSoSlowSHO]

Agreed.

And dropping the rear of the subframe makes it super easy to replace the sway bar bushings thumb

If you havnt upgraded yet, that is wink

 

[sdpatt]

No, I did not enjoy that service and I hope that I never have to do it again, but to keep the SHO rolling, I'll do what I must to do. The job would be easier with a lift rather than jackstands and less unpleasant without power steering fluid on every part of your face. Eye protection is mandatory with this job.

 

[RStalveyARFF]

It's not a bad job at all as long as you drop the rear of the subframe and take your time. I've done several PS rack swaps now with no problems. I think the biggest PITA of the entire job is reconnecting the rack and steering coupler.

 

[TimmyJimSho]

Thanks again guys. I appreciate the advice.

How bad is it to bleed fluid back through all the lines? My old man seems to think it's just a matter of slowly turning the wheel and allowing the pump to move the fluid on it's own. Then just add more fluid as needed.

What do you guys have to say?

 

[shojuan]

Do a 3.2 swap first. The steering rack replacement will be a piece of cake with the engine out of the way.

 

[TimmyJimSho]

Wow Shojuan, I never thought taking the engine out would help me get to the steering rack. Oh, but I almost forgot......oh that's right.... Not only am I 22 and have never done an engine swap on any car I have owned (my 95 ATX makes #2), but I'm also finishing college this May, not only with a B.S. but $20,000 in debt. To top that off, the only engine lift I have is sitting in Pittsburg. To everyone else who gave me advice I could use.....thanks again fellas.

Timmy

 

[SHOnuff93]

Hey Timmy, no need to get smart with Rick, his advice is real.

And just because you are 22 and in college and in debt doesnt mean you can't do stuff to your car. I am 23 and in more college caused debt than you and i have done tranny swaps in driveways, as well as engine swaps (3.2L swap).

 

[TimmyJimSho]

I don't mean to get testy. In fact, I'm probably due for a tranny swap this summer as well. The fact of the matter is, I've ignored my sho the past year and a half and have a lot to do this summer. I'm replacing the steering rack, exhaust, doing a 96 brake upgrade along with having the parts powdercoated, replacing both bumper covers, having the overall body repaired for rust spots, EATC replacement, A/C charge, new wires, and anything else that comes up along the way. Although I'm capable of working on my own car, an engine swap sounds a bit out of my league. But as long as we're on the subject, how bad was it? Did you buy a new 3.2? And did you do an ATX swap? I'm getting the feeling that I may be coming up on that project.

 

[cloudAustin]

I like the expetise fellas...help

I am looking at doing the p/s pump swap myself. I have been around a few other SHOs but never this area. You guys got any instructions for a 91 3.0? Thanks...

 

[SHOtimer]

I would suggest starting your own post..not answering new questions on really old posts.

Doug

 

[SonicRiot]

Scott... you did a rack replacement and your car has 290K miles on it??? When did you replace the rack? C'mon... you have most likely replaced EVERY part of your SHO by now!!!

I think it's time for a new car....