Rack & Pinion Boot removal?

[gr91]

ok so i got my rack and pinion boot, but how do i do the job? lol Does anyone have a write up or something? or can tell me how to do the job myself? Im goin to change it when i change springs and shocks. let me know >.<

[90 GP]

Here is a link for some general info.

http://www.autozone.com/autozone/rep...00c1528006f64a

[Sturdavj]

"BE SURE TO MARK TIE ROD THREAD's /BALL JOINT ENDS BEFORE REMOVAL"

The boots are held in place by spring clamps, remove the clamps and pull the boots back. When I R&R’d mine I used Quality tie-wraps on the actuator side (large end) instead of OEM clamps, something I tend to do unless it’s a pressure line.

You may want to consider replacing the tie rods (2) while you have it apart. There is a hymn joint on the actuator side that wears as well as the ball joint end.

There is a metal retainer under the boot, where the rod screws into the steering actuator. Pull back the boot, flatten retainer, unscrew old, and screw in the new tie rod.

[gr91]

I'm not trying to replace the tie rods or anything. those are still good, I'm just tying to replace the rack and pinion boot on the passenger side! It's torn and that's it.

[90 GP]

The instructions refer to the tie rods ends because to get the old boot off and the new one back in place the tie rod end has to be removed to accomplish it.

[gr91]

Yeah I know I was just saying because you said to replace my tie rods. Those are good but thanks anyway! Glad for all the help!

[Sturdavj]

This is only helpfully advice, not meant to be interrupted as “you must do this”

Be sure to inspect the tie rods very closely.

Boots are there for a reason, to keep the joints clean from contaminates.

If your boots are worn through I am willing to bet your joints are contaminated /worn out. Unless the boots were torn by an outside force ?

[gr91]

I'm pretty sure it was external cause it was split through the middle. But I'll be sure to inspect them to make sure they're good still. It's been like 2 weeks since it tore. So let's see how it looks.

[Sturdavj]

Good Luck & do let us know what ya find

[gr91]

Will do! But that's if I don't go To a shop to get it done. I'll see when I got free time

[Sturdavj]

On a difficulty scale of 1<>10, I would rate it about four. One being a light bulb replacement and a ten would be overhauling an automatic transmission.

If you have access to a floor jack & stands or a set of quality ramps I encourage you to take this on.

If not you may need to hire it out, you might want to consider a mobile mechanic service when comparing prices.

Your tools would need to be a set of metric sockets & end wrenches, pliers, and of course my favorite a small ball peen hammer.. always a good tool to have if for no other reason than to hit my thumb with

[gr91]

well i meant to go to a shop that my brother in laws dad has! i can give em like $30 to do the job! but im goin to change the springs back to stock so im trying to wait to get them! Im goin to try to get them as soon as possible! i went to a junk yard found a 90 prizm and asked the guy how much just the springs. he was a douchebag and said i had to get the whole strutt. -_- said $100 for all 4 so lets see where else i can go thanks though!

[Sturdavj]

Sounds like a Good plan
Keep us updated

I just completed my complete front end, exception being the lower control arms & bushings.

I was amazed (@ 290K) the shape everything was in, had some miles left in them

[gr91]

Yeah im in LOVE with my Toyota! lol the only thing i might just have them do is change the boot, cause i dont wanna f*** anything up! lol I'll do it myself IF THERE IS A VIDEO! so i can know exactly what to do. I knoww EXACTLY how to change springs, just need some damn spring locks! but other than that its all good. im goin to get it aligned the week after im done. Then buy some new tires, HOPEFULLY get some Rotas or something, lol idk i want 15's but we'll see whats up!, i LOVE toyota cause it allows me to say F*** YOU to the Economy ;D lmao