Concerning Steering Racks

[1985taylor1925]

This is the second thread Iv started on the issue. I have read that the 3rd generation steering racks dont have the greatest seals in them. My rack is leaking, and has play on both ends. It is time to replace it.

On many parts I will stick with Toyota OEM. But Im wondering if anyone has any valuable knowledge about another steering rack that is high quality. There are a bunch of them out there. Iv herd different things about them. As i see it, my options are to get one from a salvage yard, which is what im leaning toward right now, or get an aftermarket. I plan on finding one with fairly low miles off of a 2004 Tacoma Prerunner. Thats the newest possible used rack available. And maybe the seals are higher quality on it. But if there is an aftermarket rack that is proven to be high quality and reliable, I am definately interested. Any advice is appreciated.

 

[1985taylor1925]

Anyone? Someone must have some knowledge on this topic. Steering racks typically dont last past 200k without some work. And I know many on the forum have 200k plus miles. This thread could potentially be helpful to many 3rd gen owners. None of the other threads really provide much conclusion. Nor has my research. But I imagine there must be a really high quality aftermarket rack out there somewhere.

 

[maclean216]

I haven't heard of any good aftermarket racks. When I was looking to replace mine I went with a good low mileage used one. I think thats the best cost effective replacement.

 

[1985taylor1925]

I haven't heard of any good aftermarket racks. When I was looking to replace mine I went with a good low mileage used one. I think thats the best cost effective replacement.

How many miles were you at when you replaced it?

 

[maclean216]

155k

 

[rjaudi]

I know an OEM rack was 680 online. They are almost 1000 at a dealer. I would be careful with the prerunner rack as I think Toyota made the 2wd and 4wd steering different. I know the mounts at least are.

 

[1985taylor1925]

I know an OEM rack was 680 online. They are almost 1000 at a dealer. I would be careful with the prerunner rack as I think Toyota made the 2wd and 4wd steering different. I know the mounts at least are.

Ya the prerunner (2wd) fits the 4runner. The 4x4 tacoma rack is slightly different, like you said.

 

[1985taylor1925]

155k

How did you know yours was going bad? I mean i assume it was leaking. But did you feel anything in your front end? I have another thread called "jitters on bumps" where i tried to figure out my front end issues. Im just wondering if this will be the fix.