Tips for replacing steering rack?

[Dr HaxZaw]

So my steering rack has about 3-4mm of play in it and as im getting some slight vibration in the front and can get a reconditioned one for about $200 i was going to change it. Im just looking for some tips as to where things might go wrong.

I've got a socket set, pliers, shifters and so forth (no ring spanners though) will these be all the tools I need?
Also do i need to bleed the system and how would i go about it?
Once unbolted im assuming you just pull it out one side of the car?

These are the main areas im worried about as i only have the one car so i need to be 100% before i start. Any other general tips would be great.

Thanks

[ephect]

Ok, when I had to replace one of the power steering lines at the rack, I rang Holden service and one of the guys gave me a great tip.
Undo the 2 bolts that hold the rack in position, from under the car. Pull it out enough so you can lever a spanner in there to undo the 2 lines from the rack.
Once off, push the rack back in position (doesn't have to be all the way) then undo the rack ends noting the position of the thread, paint or whiteout. Then remove.
Are u doing rack ends as well? Might be worth it at the same time. If so u can use the old ones for a rough alignment but u'll have to book in for a proper alignment.

That's all I can think of for now, but others will be able to add pointers that live missed.

[Dr HaxZaw]

thanks for that... i was thinking of getting new bushes and all for the ends

might push it back a week or so and do it properly

[ephect]

Don't kno if u have new rack boots as week if not might as well do them too

[Dr HaxZaw]

I think the reco one comes with new boots

[dirt drifter]

a flare nut, or flank drive spanner to undo the pwr steer lines would be handy too. i wouldn't trust a normal open ender to get them loose without wrecking the flare nuts