Rack & Pinion Conversion
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Freshman User
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 46
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Rack & Pinion Conversion
Anyone attempt a rack & pinion conversion on a 4x2 Ex?
I love my Ex, but am completley exasperated with the sloppy steering...it's just a pain in the rear to drive.
I have replaced all ball joints, tires (due for a change anyway), and every single piece of the steering system between the steering shaft and the wheels. Too many alignments to count! TWO steering boxes, and yes, I have adjusted the steering box to tighten the steering feel. Yet, there is still a good 1/2" movement on either side of steering center before any steering response, then I end up chasing the steering in the other direction. If I tighten the box up anymore, I run into binding, but still have the center slop. Not fun on a 1000 mile trip with a trailer in tow! I'm convinced it is the steering box, because I can reach down in the engine bay, grab the steering shaft by hand and twist it half an inch in both directions, with no movement on the pitman arm...and this is the second new box (1 yr old).
Is a rack and pinion conversion an option?
I love my Ex, but am completley exasperated with the sloppy steering...it's just a pain in the rear to drive.
I have replaced all ball joints, tires (due for a change anyway), and every single piece of the steering system between the steering shaft and the wheels. Too many alignments to count! TWO steering boxes, and yes, I have adjusted the steering box to tighten the steering feel. Yet, there is still a good 1/2" movement on either side of steering center before any steering response, then I end up chasing the steering in the other direction. If I tighten the box up anymore, I run into binding, but still have the center slop. Not fun on a 1000 mile trip with a trailer in tow! I'm convinced it is the steering box, because I can reach down in the engine bay, grab the steering shaft by hand and twist it half an inch in both directions, with no movement on the pitman arm...and this is the second new box (1 yr old).
Is a rack and pinion conversion an option?
Sit. Stay.
Joined: Oct 2001
Posts: 18,308
Likes: 20
From: Washington State
No way, no how. Sorry...
If you're willing to entertain what could end up being thousands of dollars for a one-off, custom rack & pinion set up then you should probably just buy a new steering gear. Heck it'd be easier and cheaper to throw a solid axle under there. Just don't run power to it.
If you're willing to entertain what could end up being thousands of dollars for a one-off, custom rack & pinion set up then you should probably just buy a new steering gear. Heck it'd be easier and cheaper to throw a solid axle under there. Just don't run power to it.
Senior User
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 215
Likes: 3
From: Michigan
Another huge recomendation for the Red Headed box. It was the best upgrade bar none. Pricey, but worth every penny.
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