My steering gear was ruined by a punctured boot. I have managed to remove it.

My truck has a coupling that has pinch bolts top and bottom and can be removed from the intermediate shaft and the steering rack. I could only get it free at the shaft. Is there some trick to getting the coupling free of the steering rack? I have completely removed the pinch bolt, covered it with break free and beat it with a hammer. Also is there an after market source for these couplings? I think this column is only used on some 4x4 tacomas in 2000 with tilt wheel.

My other question involves the two lines to the pump. I had to disconnect the pressure feed line at the banjo fitting on the pump. I do not see how you could do it any other way as turning the nut on the pressure feed tub at the steering rack rotates the entire line around.

On the return tube, I just cut the line.

How are people removing those two lines before removing the rack?

How do people feel about rebuilt racks from Cardone? Any tips on reassembly?

TIA Sam

 

is the steering gear the same as the steering rack? i have an 04 tacoma sr5 4x4. also torsion bars, you ever have to adjust yours?

 

Tacomas do not use torsion bars, they use coilovers in the front.

Steering gear and steering rack are technically not the same thing by definition, but since they only used Rack and Pinion steering in the tacomas, we know what you mean.

 

thanks, i am still learning all the parts and such. so when one dealer says rack and pinion, they are correct? and if the other dealer says, steering rack or gear, are they trying to confuse me? i think i get what you mean. thanks for the coilover info. what do those look like? im also have issues with the dealer telling me i need a body shop to pull my frame, to adjust my left front camber to factory specs. does that mean my frame is bent?

 

Actually the Toyota service manual refers to it as a steering gear. I think a rack and pinion is a type of steering gear?

Anybody want to help me get the coupling off the steering rack? Should I try spreading the collar?

 

Yes, spreading the collar will help. Often times rust makes it a major PITA to remove, so between using some penetrating lube, and BFH, you should be able to get it off.

 

so does the epc... yes, the rack and pinion is a type of gear system

 

Ended up taking the coupling apart and using a two arm claw puller to get it off the shaft. No other way with all the rust.