- Wrench set
- Socket set
- Screwdriver
- Pliers
- Jack and jack stands
- Safety glasses
Parts Needed:
- Rack and pinion assembly
- Inner tie rod ends
- Outer tie rod ends
- Power steering fluid
Instructions:
1. Park your Windstar on a level surface and apply the parking brake.
2. Jack up the front of your Windstar and place it on jack stands.
3. Loosen the lug nuts on the front wheels.
4. Remove the front wheels.
5. Remove the brake calipers and rotors.
6. Disconnect the power steering hoses from the rack and pinion assembly.
7. Remove the tie rods from the steering knuckles.
8. Remove the four bolts that secure the rack and pinion assembly to the subframe.
9. Remove the rack and pinion assembly from the vehicle.
10. Install the new rack and pinion assembly.
11. Reinstall the bolts that secure the rack and pinion assembly to the subframe.
12. Reinstall the tie rods to the steering knuckles.
13. Reinstall the brake calipers and rotors.
14. Reinstall the front wheels.
15. Tighten the lug nuts.
16. Remove the jack stands and lower the Windstar to the ground.
17. Fill the power steering fluid reservoir.
18. Start the engine and turn the steering wheel from lock to lock several times.
19. Check for leaks and make sure that the steering system is working properly.
Tips:
- When installing the new rack and pinion assembly, make sure that the pinion shaft is centered in the steering column.
- When tightening the bolts that secure the rack and pinion assembly to the subframe, make sure that the bolts are tightened to the proper torque specifications.
- Make sure that the power steering fluid reservoir is full before starting the engine.
- Turn the steering wheel from lock to lock several times after starting the engine to help bleed any air from the system.
- Check for leaks and make sure that the steering system is working properly before driving the Windstar.
