Power Steering Rack Replacement on a 2005 Lexus ES330 out in a dirt driveway…
Customer complaint: Stiff steering. I diagnosed the steering issue and found that the steering was indeed a bit stiffer than it should have been, but got easier as it warmed up… Turning from lock to lock, on the ground and in the air, was noticeable stiffer when it was cold. There was no noise from any component, except for a very light whine from the steering pump when it was held at either full lock position. Being that it did move lock to lock without too much effort, I suspected that it was weak or sticking valving, in the rack.
In Part 1 I struggle a bit with the mounting bolts, try an “internet tip” that fails, but quickly come up with another, that anyone would have somewhere around the house, to serve the purpose. The rack is centered, drained, and removed. I had to special order some parts, and then pick up where I left off… After confirming the NEW rack is centered, the new rack goes in without too much struggle, and I leave off with the tie rod end re-installation, to return in Part 2
In Part 2, I complete the install and examine my work, verify all is good and take it out for the heart racing, test drive… NOT COOL!!!
THIS SERVICE IS NOT RECOMMENDED FOR THE INEXPERIENCED!
“You’ve got no more excuses… Pick up those wrenches!”
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Auto repairs for the “Do-it-yourself” mechanic… These are “HOW-TO” videos, that show viewers details of what is involved in a specific repair… some do’s and don’ts, as well as a variety of tips to make the repair easier. Warning: Some videos may contain material that qualifies as “other than normally accepted”.
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Stay tuned for part 2… Not much scarier than taking a repaired vehicle out for a test drive and suddenly realizing the steering wheel won't turn!
Let me know what you think might have caused it below…
Thanks for that clarity made for perfect installation of rack.
What rack did you use? Is OEM from autozone ok?
Will this work for the 2004 Lexus ES330?
Whats crazy – Toyota or Lexus does not sell the inner tie rods separately. A common wear item.
What would the symptoms be of the two bushings under the rack failing?
This was very relaxing to watch!
To get them hard bolts put heat to it pop
Don’t hit the tie rod like that unless u gon get a new one smack the side
Assuming you checked the fluid level and bleed the rack by turning lock to lock a few times to get the air out, I would next guess there is a clog in the line.