I've decided to tackle throwing in a steering rack without removing the y-pipe. Maybe without removing the crossmember as well, but I can probably tackle that.

It seems removing the y-pipe is just to gain easier access to the passenger-side mounting bolts. If I can get to those bolts with the Y still intact, is there any other justifiable reason to removing the Y?

Also, is it possible to slide the rack out from the driver's side wheel well vs. dropping it through the center (with both the Y & crossmember connected)? I can get the spindle out the way no problem...just wondering about clearance of the pinion shaft.

There's a 4th gen thread on rack removal & though my concerns were raised slightly, there wasn't a final consensus on it being possible to do.

I figure if it can be done, I'll do it & even take pictures. Any comments?

Thanks.

 

Bump.

 

i tackle this job on my 4th gen, i did exactly what was said on that thread, but honestly you can slide that rack out the driver side with ease i did, But you do need to remove the y pipe and wiggle the sway bar out
but on the crossmember leave it on just take the center mount bolts, and have the car on jack stands and used the jack to support the engine, so you will be able to raise the engine to clear the rack.