Bad Steering Rack?

[Angry_shoe]

I lifted my 4Runner 3" about two weeks ago. I noticed the power steering felt a bit weak. I assumed it was just because it was lifted and that was how it was going to be. I got an alignment and it seamed to help a bit, but still week. This is the first lifted truck I owned so not sure what to expect.

I was out doing some fire roads this weekend. They were rough but not too crazy. When I got back on pavement I could feel some vibration/noise when turning hard. Parking lot inspection I could see the driver side boot was damaged. The power steering fluid was low but not gone. I have not had a chance to pull the skid plate to get a better look.

Is it pretty clear that I need a new steering rack. Can I just replace the boot? How does steering normally feel on a lifted T4R? Has any one replaced the steering rack on a 4th Gen v6 T4R. I am looking for OEM but are there any recommendations if I can't find OEM?

I saw this video but hope it would be a bit easier with V6.

 

[jfry008]

I lifted my 4Runner 3" about two weeks ago. I noticed the power steering felt a bit weak.

Check out this thread.
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/239061-steering-rack-toast.html

 

[Angry_shoe]

Check out this thread.
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/239061-steering-rack-toast.html

I saw that post. My boot is clearly bad/damaged and it looks like it might have been leaking.

Are you suggesting?

• Replace boot
• Flush Fluids
• inspect/clean/lube u-joints

 

[WhiteBoomer04]

The boots on the steering rack are not designed to retain oil. They are essentially dust boots. Sounds like to have a leak. Its a PITA to replace seals. Just buy re manufactured or one from a wreck.

I scored a rack from an FJ. Also tried a Tacoma but was too long. I also ordered a reman. rack but got the FJ rack first so still have not put in the reman.

Not a tough job to pull. Just fiddly. There's a YouTube video (I think Eric the car guy) that walks you through it. He had some trouble due to salt on some bolts etc. I did not and mine came out easier than his. Certainly takes some wiggling and twisting once you have unbolted everything.

 

[jfry008]

I saw that post. My boot is clearly bad/damaged and it looks like it might have been leaking.

Are you suggesting?

• Replace boot
• Flush Fluids
• inspect/clean/lube u-joints

I would try to find the source of the PS leak.
I also would spray down the u-joint with penetrating oil to see if it needs to be changed out.