I AM TRYING TO REPLACE A RACK AND PINION IN A 1997 FORD EXPLORER COULD YOU TELL ME OR GIVE ME A PICTURE ON HOW THE OLD ONE COMES OUT>
* IF YOU CAN TURN YOUR WHEEL LEFT TO RIGHT WITH OUT IT BINDING AND THERE ARE NO LEAKS AT THE RACK THEN MORE THAN LIKLEY YOU RACK AND PINION ARE OK
You can tell that the rack in opinion steering is bad when there is excessive play in the steering will. You might also feel a shimmy in the steering wheel.
If you call your local dealer with the cars VIN number they will tell you if you have any open recalls.
If it turns hard in both directions evenly, I would suspect the pump is at fault. If it turns hard in one direction unevenly, I would suspect the rack.
If there are any kind of steering issues, they should be checked by a professional. One problem that signals an issue is a random shuddering and a "clumping" sound.
Remove your rack and pinion, send it to a rebuilder, jobber, and they will easily be able to rebuild it and return it to you. This would be by far the most cost effective. Consider having an experienced GM mechanic and or a large volume parts supplier look at it. I bet they would tell you that it is somewhat common and it may be GM.
Could just be low on PS fluid. Your dealership can tell you also if their is a recall to update the rack and pinion, some GM products in the late 90's early 2000's had issues that were recalled. Good luck.
you can just tell her that she can trust you and if its something about the relationship tell her you wont get emotional and she might tell you whats wrong
The most common reason for power steer failure is fluid leaks. On power steering pump, you should check behind p/s pulley for leak at the shaft. On the rack and pinion(steering gear) check rubber boots at both ends and check for leaks where steering shaft is connected to rack and pinion input shaft. Check pressure hose at crimp fittings for leaks.
By looking at it!
A basic PS system has three components: pump : hoses : steering box A rack and pinion system has the same components except the "rack" replaces the steering box. The question is, what kind do you have and can you tell where the fluid has leaked out from. The prices range from relatively cheap(Hoses) to expensive(pump or steering box/rack)