Need New Rack-n-Pinion :(

[Cranmaro99]

So long story short, my rack and pinion is shot and the entire thing needs replaced. Of course we all know Ford doesn't manufacture or have any extra parts in stock to order, and the cheap replacements dont last long at all (months, if that!) from what I've seen on this forum over the past few years.

So what are my options? Are there any companies out there that make a solid piece for Explorers?

Btw my car is a 2001 Ford Explorer 5.0 AWD Limited 4dr.

 

[Dave 1955]

How do you know you need a new rack..just curious.

 

[Cranmaro99]

My mechanic and I went over it because we were going to replace tie rod ends, and its leaking really bad on an internal seal that is non-servicable.

 

[OffTrac]

I replaced mine about a year ago with a reman Fenco and have used it well so far turning 35" tires. Wasn't too terrible a job either but I have a 4.0 Sport Trac.

 

[Cranmaro99]

I replaced mine about a year ago with a reman Fenco and have used it well so far turning 35" tires. Wasn't too terrible a job either but I have a 4.0 Sport Trac.

That's good to know, thank you. Any further opinions/knowledge is welcome.

 

[obie]

Cardone remans are supposed to be pretty good.

http://www.cardone.com/Products/Pro...line+filter+available;Includes+Inner+Tie+Rods

Rock Auto has them for $240, $90 after you send in the core and get the $150 core charge back.

 

[Cranmaro99]

Cardone remans are supposed to be pretty good.

http://www.cardone.com/Products/Pro...line+filter+available;Includes+Inner+Tie+Rods

Rock Auto has them for $240, $90 after you send in the core and get the $150 core charge back.

Thanks for the heads up.

 

[OffTrac]

I replaced mine about a year ago with a reman Fenco and have used it well so far turning 35" tires. Wasn't too terrible a job either but I have a 4.0 Sport Trac.

That's good to know, thank you. Any further opinions/knowledge is welcome.

Update. Went to crap today. What timing! :fire:

It has a lifetime replacement so I'll replace it with the same this time since it won't cost me anything but an alignment and hopefully I'll be putting the tons under it by the time the next one craps out.

Can't say that I recommend the Fenco any longer.

 

[Cranmaro99]

Update. Went to crap today. What timing! :fire:

It has a lifetime replacement so I'll replace it with the same this time since it won't cost me anything but an alignment and hopefully I'll be putting the tons under it by the time the next one craps out.

Can't say that I recommend the Fenco any longer.

Wow that's crazy timing. Thanks for the update!

 

[kevinspann]

Napa reman rack in mine, great so far.

 

[obie]

Napa reman's are actually the same as Cardone remans, just at a higher price than Cardone directly. But, if you have a local Napa and ever need to warranty it, that higher price suddenly becomes far more attractive than shipping there and back.