A steering component does not fail alone. When one part of the steering fails, it is best to replace related parts to prevent stripping the same area and incurring further costs for a second repair within a few months.
Rack and Track Rod Ends
The Rack and Track Rod Ends on a steering system do similar work. It’s quite common for Track Rod Ends to wear excessively at the same time as the Rack Ends. When the steering Rack is removed for repair, the related Track Rod Ends can usually be fitted as well for minimum extra labour.
Rack and Gaiters
Gaiters provide a protective covering to the joints within the steering rack and need to be considered when replacing a steering rack as worn gaiters may have contributed to the failure of the old rack.
Pump and Pressure Hose
High-pressure hose connecting the pump to the rack: The pressure of the new pump could also now start to ruin an old hose. Better to replace both at the same time.
Pump and Fluid Reservoir
The fluid reservoir holds and filters fluid for the pump. If the old pump has been contaminated or runs low on fluid, there could be debris in the reservoir that would damage a new pump. Steering Parts is covered in more detail at westernpowersteering.co.uk/steering-parts/.
Steering Rack and Rack Mounting Bushes
These little mounts are designed to absorb the forces exerted upon the steering rack and attach it to the vehicle’s subframe. They’re made of rubber, often worn and split and can allow the steering rack to move under load and cause problems such as knocking or worn tracker rods and rough or even inaccurate steering. They cost very little to replace and take minutes to fit when the rack is already removed.
By replacing grouped parts on your steering system within one visit, you will only incur the necessary labour to replace the entire steering system and have it running better than ever.
