Steering rack bushings

Anyone able to give me an idea of. What it takes to swap out the steering rack bushings? Mine are worn and allowing movement of the rack. Planning to replace with poly

 

You need some pickle forks, small forearms/hands, and a lot of patience. There are plenty of people that documented their experience on the forums (ie. some with guides). When I did mine, it took about 2-3 hours of taking my time.

 

Thanks. I appreciate the help. So it Looks like I disconnect tie rod ends, disconnect steering shaft, then remove rack bolts And move rack enough to access bushings. Then use pickle forks to get bottom bushings out then best out upper ones. Replace and bolt everything back

 

Yup. Pretty much. I'd suggest marking the steering column with a paint pen also so you can make sure it doesn't get misaligned on accident.

 

looked at everything closer today and not exactly sure how to disconnect steering shaft. It disconnects from the rack correct?

I can barely get to it- does cv axle have to be pulled or is there a way to get to it?

Not sure how to get a mark on it either since its so tight. Anyone have any tips for doing this on a 4wd truck? I noticed to one write up I saw was a 2wd which I am sure makes it easier

 

Thinking about finally giving this a try. Just ordered the pickle forks.

have seen some conflicting info on the process.

I know I need to lock steering wheel in place, mark the steering shaft and disconnect.

DO I need to disconnect TRE if not pulling rack? It looks like once i remove the 2 mounting bolts i can slide rack enough with ratchet straps to access and let the fun begin?

 

https://www.tundras.com/threads/the-definitive-steering-rack-thread-with-solutions.33539/

Lots of good info here FYI.

 

I suggest disconnecting the TREs because, while you're not removing the rack, you do need to shimmy it around a bit to mess with the bushings. No point in having extra forces working against you. You don't need to get an alignment again after just disconnecting the TREs as long as you don't mess with the TRE alignment itself.

 

I did a write up on how to do it. Hope it helps

https://www.tundras.com/threads/anyone-replacing-their-steering-rack-bushings-w-35s.61354/

 

thank you all for the replays. Hoping to give it a try next week. Ill keep you updated and thanks for all the help