How to Replace the Chrysler Steering Rack?

To replace Chrysler steering rack, begin by gathering critical tools: a socket set, torque wrench, fluid extractor, pry bar, ball joint separator, and breaker bar. Prepare the vehicle on a stable surface using a hydraulic jack and jack stands after securing brakes and removing wheels. Disconnect the battery and drain power steering fluid to ensure safe and clean operation. Remove the old rack by detaching tie rod ends, steering shaft, and fluid lines. Install the new rack using manufacturer-specified torque (75-85 ft-lbs). Test steering alignment with fresh fluid and ensure tight fittings. Further guidance covers professional alignment for optimal performance outcomes.

Gather Necessary Tools

Before you start replacing a Chrysler steering rack, gather all the tools you need. Having the right tools makes the job easier and helps avoid mistakes or delays.

Here's what you should have:

A socket set with both metric and standard sizes, as Chrysler cars often use both types.
A torque wrench to apply the correct amount of force when tightening bolts.
A power steering fluid extractor to remove old fluid without spills.
A pry bar and a ball joint separator to help detach steering parts.
A breaker bar for extra leverage on tight bolts.

Don't forget safety gear like gloves and eye protection.

A repair manual for your specific Chrysler model will provide helpful diagrams and steps. A flashlight or work light will help you see in tight spaces.

Also, have a container ready to catch any fluids you drain, so you can dispose of them properly.

These tools and supplies will help you replace the steering rack smoothly.

Prepare the Vehicle

Position the car on a flat surface. This keeps it from moving while you work. Use the parking brake and put chocks behind the back wheels.

Lift the front of the car with a hydraulic jack that can handle the car's weight. Put jack stands under the frame to keep it steady.

Take off the negative terminal of the battery. This stops electrical shorts and prevents the airbags from going off accidentally.

Remove the front wheels for easy access to the steering parts. Check the suspension and wheel area for any signs of wear or damage.

Note how the steering wheel is positioned so it stays aligned after you install the new rack. Use a steering wheel lock or a bungee cord to keep it from moving.

Look over the steering linkage and nearby parts to see if anything is in the way. Make sure you have all the tools and parts you need before starting.

Remove the Old Rack

First, make sure everything is safe before you start. Disconnect the negative cable from the battery to avoid any electrical issues. Lift the car with jack stands and take off the front wheels to have more space to work. Find the power steering fluid reservoir and drain it to reduce spills.

Next, you'll need to separate the tie rod ends from the steering knuckles. Use a tool called a tie rod puller to do this carefully. After that, take out the steering shaft from the rack. Find the universal joint and use the right socket to unfasten it. Keep the steering wheel straight while doing this.

Now, look at the high-pressure and return lines connected to the rack. Use a flare nut wrench to safely disconnect these lines and catch any leftover fluid in a drip pan.

Lastly, remove the bolts holding the rack to the subframe. There are usually four. Carefully take the rack out of the vehicle, making sure not to bump other parts. Now, the area is ready for the new rack.

Install the New Rack

Start by placing the new steering rack into the spot in the subframe. Make sure it's lined up right to avoid steering problems later. Use the correct bolts to hold it in place and tighten them according to the manufacturer's guidelines, usually between 75 to 85 foot-pounds.

Check that the rack is centered and lines up with the steering column to avoid uneven tire wear.

Attach the tie rod ends to the steering knuckles. Adjust both sides equally to keep the alignment correct. Tighten these with a torque wrench to the required settings, generally 45 to 55 foot-pounds.

Reconnect the power steering lines to the new rack, checking for leaks and making sure they fit well. Use fresh O-rings to prevent fluid leaks and ensure the hydraulic system works well.

Make sure everything is securely attached, and there are no blockages or misalignments. Properly setting up the steering rack helps the vehicle steer reliably.

Test and Adjust Steering

After you've put in the new steering rack, the next thing to do is to make sure the steering works well. First, check that everything is tight and secure, like the tie rod ends and the hydraulic line fittings. This helps stop leaks and keeps things stable.

Once you've checked, fill the power steering reservoir with the right fluid, such as ATF+4 for Chrysler cars, and remove any air pockets from the system. This makes steering smooth.

Lift the car and look at the steering parts closely. See if anything is out of place or looks odd. This helps make sure the steering is set up right, which is good for how the car drives and for the tires.

Keep the steering wheel straight and see if it stays that way when driving straight. If it doesn't, adjust the tie rod ends until it does.

It might be a good idea to have a professional alignment done. This makes sure everything is at the right angles. If the alignment is off, it can wear out tires unevenly and make the car handle poorly.