Steering problems any ideas?

[Bushtreka Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close Bushtreka]

I have 1997 RV6. Noticed that there is slack in the steering gear when you move either front wheel left to right on the jack. Looks like the problem may be in the Rack!
Wheel bearings are ok, rack mounts are OK, no leaks or giveaway signs and all other steering including the outer tie rod ends and steering knuckles are all OK .
Had a look in the workshop manual and it talks about inner tie rod ends. Do these wear like the outer tie rods can? Has anyone had to replace inner tie rod ends.They are inside the rubber boots attached to the end of the rack I only have 140,000KM on the clock and a bit surprised about this.
Has anyone had to replace the steering rack and dare I ask what that cost?
Any help would be appreciated. :shock

Bushtreka

[waltec Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close waltec]

Re: Steering problems any ideas?

My understanding is that most racks have replacable inner tie rod ends. Not sure whats involved with changing them in a 90, but a mate had one replaced in his VS commadore the other day. He cringed when the wheel align guy said it needed replacing, (wallet still sore after replacing the sealed front wheel bearing). The part was only $17 and only charged him $10 to fit as he was already under car.

Hopefully yours is just as easy and cheap to replace!!

Matt

[jcas24 Advanced Member Find all posts View Profile Close jcas24]

Re: Steering problems any ideas?

Hey mate.

I have to do the same to my prado (160k). There is another thread on this here

It seems to be a pretty common problem with this model, left hand side in particular.

[jcas24 Advanced Member Find all posts View Profile Close jcas24]

Re: Steering problems any ideas?

Available on ebay, $35 each. Toyota rack end

[Bushtreka Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close Bushtreka]

Re: Steering problems any ideas?

Thanks for the replies guys,

I found the other thread on this after starting this one. (Sorry)

It was the inner tie rod ends which had dried out and rusted with moisture from water crossings etc. One of the boots had a small hole in it as well.

A new set is in for the Cup weekend. All the vibes have gone at 100kph and it feels like my old toyota is back! (Oh what a feeelin'!!)

Bushtreka