Steering rack removal

[motley1987]

Does anyone know if there's been instructions posted on how to remove the steering rack? I want to replace the bushings and possibly the rack itself but I'm not sure how to do it or how long it'll take. I figured it's held in where the passengers side bushing is and also where it's attached to the steering shaft. Just not sure if the other spot where the third bushing goes is it or if there's something else that needs to be unbolted. Any tips or help would be great. Thanks! Ben

 

[08H3]

Everything you mentioned plus the hydraulic lines and the outer tie rods and it will come out.

 

[6pack]

Check for threads about the steering rack reinforcement kits. I think I posted mine here. There's the passenger side bolt into the frame. And under where the steering shaft attaches there are two bolts that bolt it into the frame, one front to back and one vertically. Two of the hydraulic lines near the steering shaft come off with one bolt. The other set of lines don't need to come off since the just attach back to the rack. And you'll need to disconnect the tie-rods (find the specific tool for that and it will be much easier). Good luck.

 

[5gn-h3t]

It's pretty easy. Just keep pulling out bolts until it hits you in the head. To pop the tie rods out of the knuckles, just hit the casting 90 degrees to the tie rod. No special tool required.

 

[motley1987]

Thanks for the help everyone. Two last questions, if I'm pulling hydraulic lines, I'm guessing there will be steering fluid pouring out? Just want to make sure so I'm not surprised when I take it apart. Also, if I replace the rack(including inner and outer tie rods) do I need an alignment right away? I also want to replace the cv half shafts and possibly the upper and lower control arms but if I can't get everything done in one shot I want to make sure I can drive it a few days without causing any problems. I stopped by a shop and they wanted almost $700 to just pull the rack, replace the bushings and then do an alignment, so I'd rather do it myself. Thanks again! Ben

 

[08H3]

You'll have some fluid, but it's not like it's just going to come pouring out. You'll need an alignment soon, but if you get it close, you can drive for a few days.

 

[jphh20]

I am about to perform the same upgrade to my rig. Is there a special method to bleed the system? I typically re-install, fill the system, start the vehicle and turn the steering left lock and right lock until all air automatically clears. Do the H3s require additional bleeding?

 

[silvrzuki77]

DO NOT start the vehicle! Key on and turn the wheel back and forth about 20 times with the cap off.