Anyone know how difficult is it to change the steering gear in a 2003 ranger 4.0 XLT? If someone could point me in the right direction, it would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!!!

 

To replace the Rack and Pinion

1. Turn the wheel to the straight-ahead position and turn the ignition switch to the OFF position.
2. Remove the front wheel and tire assemblies.
3. Remove the fluid cooler.
4. Remove the cotter pins and nuts from outer tie rod end (steering knuckle).
5. Using special tool, separate the tie-rod ends from the wheel knuckles
6. Remove the pinch bolt and detach the intermediate steering shaft from the gear.
CAUTION: Do not allow the intermediate shaft to rotate while it is disconnected from the steering gear or damage to the clockspring can result. If there is evidence that the intermediate shaft has rotated, the clockspring must be removed and recentered.
7. Disconnect the power steering pump lines (recommend replacing the O-ring seals).
8. Plug or cap the power steering return hose, power steering pressure hose, and the steering gear ports to prevent the entry of dirt.
9. Remove the Racks mounting nuts from cross member.
10. Remove the mounting stud, nut, washer and stop assemblies.
11. Remove the steering gear.
12. To install, reverse the removal procedure.
· Install a new power steering pressure hose O-ring seal and a new power steering return hose O-ring seal.
· If necessary, remove the tie rod ends.
· The dished side of the washer faces downward.
· Install a new intermediate shaft pinch bolt.
13. Fill and leak check the power steering system.
14. Check and, if necessary, adjust the wheel alignment.