Chrysler Repair: Rack and Pinion bushings, mechanic shop, chrysler dealer

Question
Hello,

I was wondering if it would be possible for us to replace the rack and pinion bushings on our car, ourselves?  It's an 89 New Yorker, I have had the rack and pinion replaced before and it doesnt seem to be that big of a deal, however, I would like my boyfriend to try.  The mechanic shop I spoke with almost sounded like the rack would not have to be taken out to replace the bushings...do you think that is the case?  Are there special tools that will be needed?  (FYI, our oil leak has caused the bushings to go bad and the steering is extremely slopping and dangerous...the bolts may be loosening due to bushings wearing out.  I appreciate your help.  Thank you.

Answer
Hi R,
I can't be sure how much disassembly will be required as the manual only shows how to remove and replace the rack/pinion. It describes a rather extensive procedure that involves unbolting the chassis crossmember so as to lower it and the attached steering gear far enough to disconnect it from the steering column. That would require a transmission jack. Before that part you would remove the tie rod ends. Then remove the bolts that secure the gear to the crossmember.
Now I am not certain, but if the bushings themselves are not solid rounds of rubber, but have a slot so that you could slip them over/around the gear then it would appear to me that the job would only involve removing the 4 bolts that retain the bearing C-shaped clamps to the crossmember, pull out the old bearings and slide over the new ones and bolt them back down. I don't see any special tools required, it is just the question of the design of the bearings. It looks like they might well be designed to simply wrap around the body of the gear. If you can speak with the mechanic who replaced the gear, or try and see what the bushings look like, I believe you will have the answer. Let me know please what you learn. I have the '88 parts manual and can give you the Chrysler part number and/or you could inquire at a Chrysler dealer parts counter to see what they show and can get in the way of new bushings.
Roland