Rack and Pinion Steering Kits And Parts

Compared to standard recirculating-ball steering systems using a gearbox, rack and pinion setups are relatively simple in the parts involved. A more efficient setup with a lower number of parts in the steering system results in less frequent maintenance as well as repair. In addition, the reduction in the number of parts used in a rack-and-pinion setup helps reduce vehicle front-end weight. Up to 20% savings in weight is achievable in the steering system by converting to a rack-and-pinion from a traditional gearbox setup.

With less moving parts than a standard gearbox steering setup, a rack and pinion system improves steering response. A firmer feel is noticed due to fewer joints and areas that can have slack or loose connections compared to a recirculating-ball setup. The result is improved handling and steering feel.

Rack and pinion steering is a type of system used in many late-model cars, light-duty pickups, and SUVS. It converts the turning of the steering wheel (via input from the driver) into a side-to-side motion that will turn the front wheels either left or right to change the vehicle's direction. Rack and pinion steering also uses gear-reduction to make it easier to turn the steering wheel, which can be further improved with a power steering pump.

The rack and pinion (gear) is located inside of a metal tube. On each end of the rack is an axial rod and bellows (rubber accordion boots that contain grease and allow movement). The input side of the rack and pinion is connected to the steering shaft that leads to the steering wheel. When the steering wheel is turned, the pinion gear inside the tube rotates, meshing with the rack (resembling a bar with teeth). The rack then moves left or right, pushing or pulling the spindles via the outer tie rods. With the wheels bolted to the spindles, the movement of the rack side-to-side in either direction causes the vehicle to turn. Power-assisted rack and pinion systems use a hydraulic pump. The power steering pump pushes fluid to both sides of a piston in a cylinder that is located within the rack and pinion tube. When the vehicle is turned, the pressure is applied to one side of the piston, making steering easier.

Most rack and pinion steering systems contain the following components:

Depending on the vehicle, the instructions to install a rack and pinion steering will vary. If the installation is to replace a factory rack and pinion during a repair, the vehicle shop or repair manual specific for your application will provide the proper steps to complete installation. For rack and pinion conversion kits, the manufacturer will provide the instructions to complete the install. For most conversions, the gear box and steering shaft is removed along with the pitman arm, center link, tie rods and idler arms. The rack and pinion assembly is then bolted in place, followed by the steering shaft, tie rods, and hydraulic components if it is a power steering system.

The steps to tighten rack and pinion steering will vary, depending on the year, make, and model of the vehicle or rack and pinion assembly. It is important to research the correct instructions by using a repair or shop manual for your specific application. In some cases, adjustment is not possible and replacement will be necessary. It is also important to check all other steering parts to confirm they are properly assembled, adjusted, and working, as they can be the cause of loose steering as well.