Need help on an H3T steering rack replacement

[ExpedH3T]

Ok folks, I have an H3T, bought it new, now at 166K mi. Steering rack bushing finally went, and I’m replacing it. I have everything unbolted except for the top bolt on the passenger C clamp. It’s a 3.7 engine. Can anyone describe how to get to the top bolt to get it undone. For the life of me I cant figure out how to get a wrench on it........

 

[alrock]

If you don't have access, it can help to unbolt the diff (3 bolts) and disconnect the front prop shaft, and slide the diff back an inch or two. That will give you the access. Sounds like a pain but should only add 20 or so minutes.

 

[4speedfunk]

I use a deep well socket. It’s tight in there. Make sure you tie the steering wheel off, I you plan to disconnect the rack.

 

[Traxx]

Drop the diff, easy and frees up plenty of space to work.

 

[ExpedH3T]

Got it out without moving the diff, I used a flex handle socket wrench and a 15mm socket with a built in universal. Thanks for all the replies!!! On a side note, nobody has the reinforcement bracket or upgrade bushings for sale, I’m bummed that I’ll have to put the new rack in without it.

 

[ExpedH3T]

 

[alrock]

On a side note, nobody has the reinforcement bracket or upgrade bushings for sale, I’m bummed that I’ll have to put the new rack in without it.

Did you check with atvspeed to see if they have any?

 

[atvspeed4]

Did you check with atvspeed to see if they have any?

We are still waiting for the last part of a big run to be made but I might still have one kit that I had set aside for the T I recently bought. Let me check when I get back to the shop

 

[ExpedH3T]

We are still waiting for the last part of a big run to be made but I might still have one kit that I had set aside for the T I recently bought. Let me check when I get back to the shop

Thanks!!!!!

 

[atvspeed4]

Thanks!!!!!

Unfortunately it looks like we had sold the last kit a while ago to someone else that was in a bind and needed a kit asap. We have 90% of another kit and will reach out to the machine shop doing the big run to see if we can get the last few pieces we need tomorrow.

 

[ExpedH3T]

Unfortunately it looks like we had sold the last kit a while ago to someone else that was in a bind and needed a kit asap. We have 90% of another kit and will reach out to the machine shop doing the big run to see if we can get the last few pieces we need tomorrow.

Thanks!!!! You’re Awesome!!!

 

[4speedfunk]

In a pinch, you can put 3-4 wraps of electrical tape around the rack tube (where the clamp sits). This will make the worn stock clamp grip it a tad tighter. Don’t overdue it however...if the clamp is too tight on the tube, it can bind the piston inside.

 

[ExpedH3T]

Dwaine from Preffered Chassis is helping me out on the back up if I cant get an upgraded mount. He had a factory clamp and bushing kicking around at the shop. My rack isn’t leaking, it was moving on the passenger side and I caught it early. I was getting a steering wheel wobble (I run BFG Km2’s 255/85R16’s) and abnormal tire wear (tires are at 25%). I had no slop in the front end until last week, I could wiggle the RF wheel back and forth horizontally. The passenger bushing was shot, letting it move around in the mount. I’m keeping my fingers crossed that ATVspeed4 might have a secure mount option, but it’s my daily driver and i’ll Eventually have to go back to work.

 

[atvspeed4]

Just heard back they are hoping to have the parts ready on Thursday we need to complete the kit. If they miss the deadline I would suggest going the plan B route and in the near future upgrade the mount when you have time available. It's really not a bad install even with rack in the truck. We have done quite a few of these at this point but it still takes us about an hour start to finish.

 

[ExpedH3T]

Just heard back they are hoping to have the parts ready on Thursday we need to complete the kit. If they miss the deadline I would suggest going the plan B route and in the near future upgrade the mount when you have time available. It's really not a bad install even with rack in the truck. We have done quite a few of these at this point but it still takes us about an hour start to finish.

Copy, I will still pick up your kit when its ready. What part of Mass are you in, I left Dorchester in 87, I get back there about 2 times a year, Adams Corner.

 

[atvspeed4]

Copy, I will still pick up your kit when its ready. What part of Mass are you in, I left Dorchester in 87, I get back there about 2 times a year, Adams Corner.

We are in Westborough Mass. Its crazy the amount of redevelopment that has been happening in Dorchester over the past few years.

 

[alrock]

Copy, I will still pick up your kit when its ready. What part of Mass are you in, I left Dorchester in 87, I get back there about 2 times a year, Adams Corner.

Does it count that I used to go to Spukies at the same time you were in Dorchester?

 

[ExpedH3T]

Does it count that I used to go to Spukies at the same time you were in Dorchester?

I went to St. Gregs till 7th Grade....I remember when the Ice Cream Smith was brand new...

 

[ludevick]

Just heard back they are hoping to have the parts ready on Thursday we need to complete the kit. If they miss the deadline I would suggest going the plan B route and in the near future upgrade the mount when you have time available. It's really not a bad install even with rack in the truck. We have done quite a few of these at this point but it still takes us about an hour start to finish.

This might be common knowledge at this point, but, as a relative newbie, are you part of Outfitter Design?

 

[atvspeed4]

This might be common knowledge at this point, but, as a relative newbie, are you part of Outfitter Design?

Yes I am

 

[ludevick]

Oh sweet, good to know. I’m also in the market for one of the steering rack kits. Glad to hear they’ll be restocked soon!


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[atvspeed4]

Copy, I will still pick up your kit when its ready. What part of Mass are you in, I left Dorchester in 87, I get back there about 2 times a year, Adams Corner.

I am picking up the part we need to get a kit together for you this afternoon and can get it shipped out first thing in the morning if you are interested still. I'll shoot you a PM

 

[Traxx]

The kit really firms up the feel of the steering and is well worth the money. There is a bit of an adjustment period while you get used to the increased responsiveness.