I am in need of replacing my axle and figure it's a good time to go ahead and take the plunge to replace steering rack (it's starting to leak more and also sloppy steering). I just want to be sure the 99 rack will fit into my 99. I read the write up here : http://forums.maxima.org/4th-generat...ring-rack.html.

I wonder if there is anything else I should consider changing. Engine mounts? How might I tell if these are bad?

Thanks!

 

yes, and the rack mounting bushings

 

Great, thanks!

 

In the write up, it says to remove engine mounts. Maybe once I am under there I will understand more, but what is the specific reason for this? Will I be able to replace the rack without removing the mounts?

 

There's a whole bunch of stuff you will have to remove in order to replace the steering rack.

You will see when you get under there. Can't remember it all, but it is a major job.

 

I did some more research and it looks like you need to remove the engine mounts to get the cross member down... I have been slowly compiling all the parts that I need to replace along with this job. I am also doing my axles and doing a minor suspension overhaul. I hope to never have to take this apart again!

 

Where did you buy a 99 rack? I remember reading that thread and the supposed stiffness of the 99 se over the other years/models but as far as I can tell all rebuilds/aftermarket units are the same for all across the 4th gens.

 

My car is in desperate need of this also. I was told the bracket for my rack needs to be welded back together. I'm going to go through the write to see if its something I can do myself.

 

can you weld?
you may want to check out the bracket's cost at the dealer

 

Looks like the bracket is $7 from courtesyparts.com. I cant weld but I do know some that can. I did look over the write up and I'll most likely just have a shop do it.

 

going to replace the tie rods too? control arm?

 

I'll most likely go ahead and replace the tie rods too. I bought both sides and the endlinks for $35 on here last week. I had the whole car inspected and I have $4000 in suspension work that needs to be done. I knew about most of the problems already and I have a lifetime warranty on alot of the parts. So I'll be paying mostly for labor on the stuff I cant do myself.

 

Here is the rack I ended up purchasing. It should be here today! However, I am running into some troubles in getting the old rack out since it seems like having ABS makes things more difficult. I have another post asking for help...so hopefully I can get this wrapped up tonight.

http://www.powersteeringpros.com/add.../80-00386.html