Steering Rack Replacement

Topic: Steering Rack Replacement (Read 1825 times) previous topic - next topic

Steering Rack Replacement

May 01, 2012, 08:00:40 PM

Does anyone have instructions for replacing the steering rack, 88 XR7?

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Lou

Steering Rack Replacement

Reply #1 – May 01, 2012, 08:18:11 PM

I wrote a quick how to when I changed mine.

http://www.foxtbirdcougarforums.com/showthread.php?30650-Tricks-to-swapping-out-steering-rack

Steering Rack Replacement

Reply #2 – May 01, 2012, 09:18:04 PM

Thank you, great write up and photos.
Quick question, one of the lines from the rack that goes where the power steering lines screw into is leaking right at the nut. Can I replace those lines? They seem really hard to get to, do I have to unbolt the power steering hoses to get to the rack lines bolts?
Hope this makes sense.

Steering Rack Replacement

Reply #3 – May 02, 2012, 12:01:49 AM

They're all pretty easy to remove, or should be, unless a maniac went crazy with wrench and got 'em too tight.

If you reuse an existing line, use NEW o rings.

Steering Rack Replacement

Reply #4 – May 02, 2012, 08:54:45 AM

Since this is an XR7 can I assume it has the performance suspension?

Steering Rack Replacement

Reply #5 – May 02, 2012, 10:06:35 AM

If you mean that it has the quicker ratio steering rack, then yeah.
It's the same as a 5.0 Mustang's rack, should be the same part #.

Even if it's not by some chance, it will work...I have a rack from a 91 Stang LX 5.0 in my Sport. Works as well as the original, except it doesn't leak lol.

You've also probably got quad shocks and 10" drums in the rear....if they have fins, they're 9", and if the drums are smooth, with NO fins, then they'll be the bigger, 10" versions.
And since yours is an '88, you *might* have the 8.8 rear...do know how to tell the difference between it and a 7.5?

As far as the springs, shocks, and struts, I'd say the springs are very similar to a TC, but the socks and struts will obviously be different.
If you haven't already, I'd suggest checking out http://www.CoolCats.net
One of the owners of this forum hosts it...also, ThunderChicken (another co-owner) has a site as well. It's www.FoxThunderCats.net
There's a TON of kickass info and tech on those pages :)

Steering Rack Replacement

Reply #6 – May 02, 2012, 10:12:21 AM

Thanks again for the great information

Steering Rack Replacement

Reply #7 – May 02, 2012, 10:17:18 AM

As far as the rear I don't know what it is. I know it's a posi, both wheel spin in the same direction when I had it jack up. The rear makes a lot of noise when I turn, guessing the oil should be changed and posi lube should be added

Steering Rack Replacement

Reply #8 – May 02, 2012, 10:41:23 AM

Getting back to the rack, I'm trying to locate the two lines that go from rack to rack. Dealer can only supply the long one. Non of the local part stores can get them. Do you know if they are available or do I have to go to a junk yard?

Steering Rack Replacement

Reply #9 – May 02, 2012, 10:42:44 AM

I am surprised NAPA can't get those lines. Good luck in your repair/search.

Steering Rack Replacement

Reply #10 – May 02, 2012, 12:05:32 PM

Should be, look for the 15 to 1 or 14.7 to one suspension.

One hose is a low pressure, the other is a high pressure. The high pressure was a good bit from what I remembera I actually had the whole rack broken where the line connected. Not a lot of fun.

The low pressure side you should be able to get away with a heater type of hose with a hose clamp.