QuestionHow do I remove the Rack & Pinion? I can get to the 3 bolts holding the Rack, but the 2 Power Steering lines are out of reach from inside the hood, from under the vehicle, or from the access panel by the gas & brake pedal.
One other question about this - there is a black plastic pump under the rack & pinion near the base of the steering column that is about the size of a softball and covered in Power Steering fluid from the Rack. What is this? It probably also needs replacing since it was covered with fluid.
Thanks in advance - your answers are great!
AnswerHi Mike,
As explained in my home page expertise summary, I am limited to vehicle pre-2000 models for lack of manuals that I can afford. However my '98 manual for the vans shows there to be about a 17-step procedure for removing the steering gear which includes removing the cradle. The installation is equally long and detailed. I would pleased to xerox and postal mail you the pages. Use the "thank/rate" tab to enter your postal address in the comments section. The Haynes mini-van manual lists most of the steps, but in much less detail, and that would be available at a parts store near you.
The plastic pump you described is part of the evaporative emission control system, specifically a leak detection pump for that system. I don't know that it would be unuseable due to being covered with steering fluid.
Roland
Thanks Roland. I do have a Haynes manual that did not give me enough detail. I did drop the cradle a few inches and still could not access the Power Steering Line attachments so I finally got a little smart and I am going to have my shop install the new Rack. Thanks again - you have great knowledge of these repairs.
Hi Mike,
Thanks for the compliment. I would still be happy to send the pages if you want the details sufficient to do the job yourself.
Roland
