Steering Column Repair: 98 Honda Civic Steering Column Assembly Replace, steering column repair, inner tie rod

Question

Steering column assemb   QUESTION: I have to replace my steering column assembly in my 98 Honda Civic EX. How big of a job is it? Is there any tricks to it? At first I thought it might be the Tie rod but after inspecting it turns out that the part that connects from the tie rod to the column assembly is moving in and out very loosely! I have included a picture of the part (I). Thank you so much for any help you can give me!
Peter

ANSWER: Hi Peter:
The part you circles is NOT the steering column, it is the 'rack & pinion' assembly.  the inner tie rod is part of the rack & pinion and very often goes bad.  
As my specialty is steering columns, the only thing I can tell yo is the job calls for skill level "B" and will take between 2.3 and 2.7 hours to replace.  You will need a lift, and may have to remove some support plates, suspension parts and exhaust to access and remove this assembly.   This is no small undertaking

Lastly, you need to make sure the steering column does not rotate while you remove the 'rack' or you will end up with an airbag problem as well.

Good luck
Doug

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: wow that was a very quick response thank you! So the hole rack & pinion has to be replaced right? Is it worth getting one from the wreckers? If so what can I do to make sure it's not a bad one?
Thank you again!!!
Peter

Answer
Once again, this is not my field of expertise.

I wouldn't want to do that job twice, so I would opt for a 'reconditioned' or rebuilt one at a parts store.  They are a very popular part and the prices have come way down for aftermarket assemblies.  You don't have to buy a new one from the dealer.  Check with your parts store & shop it!

Doug