Expert: mark henson Date: 6/26/2008 Subject: rack and pinion for 96 ford explorer removal
Question hi mark, well i have everything disconnected on the rack but can't get it out. what would be easier,raising the engine or removing the crossmember? thanks for your time,charlie
Answer
1996 Ford Truck Explorer 4WD V6-245 4.0L
Vehicle Level Steering and Suspension Steering Steering Gear Service and Repair Replacement Removal
Removal
Notes
Steering Gear
Special Service Tool Required:
Pitman Arm Puller
Start engine.
ROTATE steering wheel from lock-to-lock (entire gear travel). Record number of rotations.
DIVIDE the number of rotations by two . This gives the required number of turns to place system in the on-center position. NOTE: Verify the front wheels and steering wheel are in the straight-ahead position.
From the lock position, ROTATE steering wheel the number of turns determined in Step 3. This places the gear in the ON-CENTER position.
NOTE: DO NOT ROTATE steering column when the intermediate shaft is disconnected or DAMAGE TO CLOCKSPRING will result.
Remove bolt retaining the lower steering column shaft to the steering gear input shaft.
Disconnect the lower steering column shaft from the steering gear.
Remove stabilizer bar attachment from frame for clearance to remove gear
Unscrew the quick connect fittings for the power steering pressure hose and power steering return hoses at the steering gear housing.
Plug ends of fluid lines removed and ports in gear to prevent damage and entry of dirt.
Remove two (2) nuts from the Power Steering cooler.
Remove the Power Steering cooler from vehicle.
Remove and discard the cotter pin retaining the nut to tie rod end and remove nut.
Separate tie rod ends from front wheel spindle using Pitman Arm Puller.
Remove the two nuts, bolts, and washer assemblies retaining steering gear to front crossmember.
Remove steering gear from vehicle. If required, remove steering gear mounting bracket housing insulators and steering gear insulators from steering gear housing.
