First off new to the forum this is my first post. I have a 2001 sr5 4x4. It's got 203k with a few issues here and there right now my main problem is the rack an pinion leaking.... Leakin bad enough it ran dry the other day. I've been shopping around and can't afford to buy a new or reman one so I'm thinking about just buyin the seal kit from rock auto (More Information for GATES 348469)
My question is has anyone done this? And if so how long did it take and do you need a press? I've never worked on a r&p before So I'm curious if resealing it is worth my time. It would be really helpful if someone can get back to me soon so I can order the parts

I thought about doing this myself, but instead I just got a remanufactured rack. Actually, two of them now. If you do some reasearch you'll find that it seems toyota racks are'nt really meant to be rebuilt. When they wear out it has more to do with the internal metal specs then it does the seals. And the first remanufactured rack I got was just crap. I sent it back for a replacement, and this one is OK, so far. But Its definately not great. Still has a little slop, and will probably only last 40 to 50k. I know the OEMs are ridiculously pricey, and I wanted to avoid that, but after getting two now, paying for the first install, waiting and waiting for them to get mine and then send me the new one, and the time it took me to install the second one . . . in the long run I wish I had just got a new one from the start. I think your best option would be to find one with low miles at a salvage yard.

I have a Rack and pinion, No leaks. I'll sell it to you for $75. With add $20 to ship to Cali.

any idea on what teh cost of a new one is, i think it was somewhere in teh neighborhood of $600 but included tie rod ends as well.....

You can get a new OEM rack and pinion for less than $300
Toyota Parts Cheap.com

OEM outer tie-rods are about $50 and inner tie-rods are like $135.

Check out this site:
2000 Toyota 4 Runner Power Steering Rack Toyota Steering

The boots are in perfect condition and no slop in the steering it's just where the shaft comes down into it that's leaking. I'd post up a pic but the iPad won't let me. I might have to take you up on the offer, how many miles are on it?

And thanks everyone for quick responses. Now I know why i joined this forum over the others

I think that question was for you singtoe

i just bought 99 4rnr sr5 and had to replace front right side strut,ball joint and cv axle.2days later i noticed steering fluid leaking from rack and pinion,checked the fluid level and it was boner dry and the fluid leaking was dark.can that be caused by the pump taking a crap?because i tried to pute some in and it took a little under a quart.just wanna know if its shot or how to tell? thanks fellers!