Since the possibility of sourcing a new one would be extremely remote, we decided to get a refurbished OEM part.
BHPian Sanidhya Mukund recently shared this with other enthusiasts:
Steering rack replacement:
Last week, I noticed a puddle of oily looking liquid beneath the car. Dug around to identify what the fluid was, and realised that PS fluid was leaking from the rubber boots of the steering rack. Immediately rang my trusty mechanic up, who came along with his tools to have a look. I wanted him to replaced just the boots of the existing steering rack, because it wasn’t making any funny noises yet. However, he said that the internal seals would have perished and it is best to replace it. Since the possibility of sourcing a new one would be extremely remote, we decided to get a refurbished OEM part. Since my car isn’t allowed on the roads, the surgery had to be done at home.
They began by hoisting the car on a pair of jacks and removing both front wheels:
The rack was then unfastened from both ends:
The old rack that was pulled out. Notice the stuff that came out of it; A mix of PS fluid, water and other contaminants:
The refurbished rack that was procured. Notice the Ford logo embossed on it:
New-old rack going in:
Wheels go back on:
The steering column-rack socket joint was also lubricated:
Took the car for a short spin on closed off private roads and was satisfied with the steering feel and feedback. However, I found it to be a little sluggish in the lower gears. The mechanic sprayed the IAC valve with throttle body cleaner, and that certainly made a difference:
And that’s how a major mechanical repair was undertaken at home. I feel lucky to have a mechanic who agreed to do all this right in my driveway. All other mechanics would have insisted upon taking the car to their workshop.
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