steering rack, 1997 Mountaineer
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From: Louisville
steering rack, 1997 Mountaineer
I am in the middle of changing out the steering rack, but I can't get it out. The Haynes manual says that there is clearance to rotate it, but the oil pan is in the way. What am I missing?
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New User
Joined: Oct 2004
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From: Louisville
I already removed those bushings in an effort to get clearance. I also tried lifting the engine...enough that the front end started to raise off the jackstands. My only guess is that I have to unbolt the engine mounts, but I can't believe that would be required. Is there a possibility that the engine is sitting low for some reason?
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New User
Joined: Oct 2004
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From: Louisville
I have had about every problem that I could have. Here are the highlights:
-Had to buy a 15mm line wrench from Sears and break it in half to get clearance to put it where it needs to be. I then had to hit it with a hammer and a screwdriver to turn it.
-There is not enough room in the frame to remove or install the rack. I has to be forced...and not just a little bit...I think I need a bigger hammer.
-The engine has to be unbolted and moved up a few inches.
-Chances are that the new rack will be more damaged than the old one when I finally get it in.
-The instructions in the repair manual that I have need to be lit on fire.
-The mechanic at the dealer told me, "It's a real bear, I'm glad you are not bringing it in here."
I still don't have it together, but I think I am close. There are some definite design flaws here. Changing the clutch in my other car was SIGNIFICANTLY easier than this job. The rack has been replaced in this vehicle before, but, if I didn't know that, I would have swore up and down that it is impossible. I was under the impression that this wasn't that difficult of a job...maybe there is something specific about my vehicle that makes it hard. Maybe I am missing some critical issue here, and if anyone can tell me a way to get more clearance, PLEASE don't hesitate.
Is that enough information?
-Had to buy a 15mm line wrench from Sears and break it in half to get clearance to put it where it needs to be. I then had to hit it with a hammer and a screwdriver to turn it.
-There is not enough room in the frame to remove or install the rack. I has to be forced...and not just a little bit...I think I need a bigger hammer.
-The engine has to be unbolted and moved up a few inches.
-Chances are that the new rack will be more damaged than the old one when I finally get it in.
-The instructions in the repair manual that I have need to be lit on fire.
-The mechanic at the dealer told me, "It's a real bear, I'm glad you are not bringing it in here."
I still don't have it together, but I think I am close. There are some definite design flaws here. Changing the clutch in my other car was SIGNIFICANTLY easier than this job. The rack has been replaced in this vehicle before, but, if I didn't know that, I would have swore up and down that it is impossible. I was under the impression that this wasn't that difficult of a job...maybe there is something specific about my vehicle that makes it hard. Maybe I am missing some critical issue here, and if anyone can tell me a way to get more clearance, PLEASE don't hesitate.
Is that enough information?
