Steering Rack Bellow Replacement - 2006 H3

[H3ATH3N]

Been a long learning curve to this point. I've been slowly replacing (via college of YouTube) Half Shafts, Axle Seals, Upper control arms and thought I was done... just noticed completely torn passenger steering rack bellow which may explain the loose feel in my steering. I can't find info on how to replace here or online. Can I get some advice from the pros? I've upgraded 16mm tierods and found a boot from my old 14mm's... could this be a starting point? Please advise on feasibility for a novice to complete, steps, tools needed, and things to look out for. Thanks in advance!

 

[H3ATH3N]

 

[H3ATH3N]

Update: found the basics on the job. My main needs now:
1) Replacement part for 16mm shaft (will OEM GM fit upgraded part, is there a good universal fit option?)
2) Should I be concerned about rust spots? I understand I'll need to clean area up before installing new boot. But any other concerns about it?
3) I've noticed some looseness in steering - could this mean the bracket is already shot and needs replacing? Pic shows some fluid at bottom, could this be leaking steering fluid? The level hasn't dropped much, but I'm guessing that could mean a possible leak in the bracket.
P.S. - my mind always goes to the worst case senario...

 

[Jeepwalker]

Try this: Clamp on a large vise grips onto the lower end of the intermediate steering shaft ...and tie the vise grips "Tight" against something solid. You want it so the vise grips isn't goiing to move. Then go inside the tk and gently wiggle the steering wheel. If you feel free-play, it's probably your tk's intermediate shaft. Those have a funny crook in them and doesn't take but a small amt of play to cause free-play at the steering wheel.

If you need to buy a new one, BEFORE you put it on, ...the aftermarket ones are kind of crappy. Ensure both ends line up properly. Both aftermarket shafts I've bought the ends were out of alignment. On was WAY off. If you get one that is even a little out of alignment, send it back for a replacement.

I bought a replacement import rack from RockAuto and it seems to be well made. No problems with it so far. Hopefully you won't need to replace yours.

 

[H3ATH3N]

Try this: Clamp on a large vise grips onto the lower end of the intermediate steering shaft ...and tie the vise grips "Tight" against something solid. You want it so the vise grips isn't goiing to move. Then go inside the tk and gently wiggle the steering wheel. If you feel free-play, it's probably your tk's intermediate shaft. Those have a funny crook in them and doesn't take but a small amt of play to cause free-play at the steering wheel.

If you need to buy a new one, BEFORE you put it on, ...the aftermarket ones are kind of crappy. Ensure both ends line up properly. Both aftermarket shafts I've bought the ends were out of alignment. On was WAY off. If you get one that is even a little out of alignment, send it back for a replacement.

I bought a replacement import rack from RockAuto and it seems to be well made. No problems with it so far. Hopefully you won't need to replace yours.

Thanks for the feedback JW - I will see if I can figure that out in the process. It appears after 19 years I've finally reached the never-ending issue stage - and in Summer - - in ARIZONA!

 

[Happy Hummer]

Rust spots are not important.
Just cut the steel retaining band slide off old boot.
Put new boot on and reapply new steel retaining band. Do crimp it snug.
Ur over thinking this. The slop in the steering? Check the retaining collar assembly.