Removing a manual steering rack is not a difficult job to do if you approach it methodically.
Gather Your Tools First
This job requires a trolley jack, axle stands, torque wrench, penetrating oil, ball joint separator and a variety of sockets and spanners. Try to make sure you have all the required tools within easy reach before you start, to avoid time-wasting searches around the garage.
Disconnect the Intermediate Shaft
Support the car on axle stands. Identify where the steering column intermediate shaft connects to the steering rack’s rack pinion. Remove the pinch bolt that holds it in place and pull the shaft free from the steering rack’s rack pinion. It is a good idea to mark the intermediate shaft’s position with a paint pen so that it can be realigned correctly when the rack is reinstalled.
Remove the Track Rod Ends
Undo the track rod end nuts from the steering knuckle, spray with penetrating oil before hand and leave to soak for a few minutes. Once loose use a ball joint separator to release the end from the steering knuckle. Record the number of turns for each track rod end to enable reinstallation in the approximate position as found.
Drop the Rack from Its Mounts
First, remove the bolts that hold the rack to its mounts (these will usually be clamps attached to the subframe or even the bulkhead). Support the rack by hand as you remove the final bolt. Due to the lack of any hydraulic lines, the manual steering rack will then come straight out. For Manual Steering Racks, see https://westernpowersteering.co.uk/steering-parts/manual-rack/.
Check the Subframe and Mounts
Check the subframe and steering bulkhead mounts for any signs of damage or wear to the rubber bushes before refitting the steering rack. Also any cracks in the metal. It’s easier to replace any worn items before trying to refit the rack.
So long as you remember to clean up as you go along and try to keep to a methodical approach then the whole job should work well for you.
