Expert: Kevin - 9/9/2009

Question
how to r&r rack & pinion on my `02 durango 4x4 4.7L. any help would be appreciated. THANKS a million

Answer
REMOVAL - 4WD
NOTE: The steering column on vehicles with an automatic transmission may not be equipped with an internal locking shaft that allows the ignition key cylinder to be locked with the key. Alternative methods of locking the steering wheel for service will have to be used.

Siphon out as much power steering fluid as possible from the pump.
Lock the steering wheel.
Raise and support the vehicle.
Remove the front tires.
Remove the nuts from the tie rod ends.
Separate tie rod ends from the knuckles with Puller C-3894-A (Refer to 19 - STEERING/LINKAGE/TIE ROD END - REMOVAL)(Tie).
Remove the splash shield from under the front end to gain access to the gear.
Remove the skid plate.
Remove the power steering lines from the gear. (Refer to 19 - STEERING/PUMP/HOSES - REMOVAL), (Refer to 19 - STEERING/PUMP/HOSES - REMOVAL).
Remove the lower coupler bolt and slide the coupler off the gear (Gear Coupler).
Remove the mounting bolts (Rack & Pinion Steering Gear - 4x4) from the gear to the front crossmember. Slide the gear to the right side of the vehicle. Then tilt the left end of the gear down and remove the gear.