Rack & Pinion install/removal HELP please....

Well, my 95 cavy now needs a Rack & Pinion unit as its leaking power steering fluid from the unit, i have used stop leak in it to hold for a bit but have to replace unit soon. anyone had any experience with the R&R of this unit? Can get a used one in a bone yard for 20 bucks if i remove it or 100 if he removes it. Then i have to do the same to mine--the bone yard one is from a 96 cavy as mine is a 95--see any problems with the year interchange? The cars are both 2 doors models and not a "Z" type. I have a detailed Chiltons manual as to how to do it but havent tackled this yet--[have done a complete engine/trans removal/install in this car so far but didnt notice the unit leaking before]... Thank you in advance for your help!!!!

Also, any help on how to remove the dash plastic panel to get to the radio unit to replace it with an aftermarket brand--looks like it is on the car with just plastic push pin type connections--thank you too!!!!

DONT
i had the same problem and i did a little research and found out it was recalled. i have a 97 2.2L i dont know if they recalled yours but i'd suggest looking into that. I was quoted at over 800 bux to fix that and i got it fixed for free from the dealership. i'll see if i can find the site again with the number and everything to call.

and as for the radio. your need to remove the dash. then there shoudl be like 2 screws holding the plastic on then that pulls off. hope that helps
takes like 5 minutes.

looks like your S.O.L. i cant find the recall on your year. its really shouldnt be that big of a deal though to replace.

Well, my 95 cavy now needs a Rack & Pinion unit as its leaking power steering fluid from the unit, i have used stop leak in it to hold for a bit but have to replace unit soon. anyone had any experience with the R&R of this unit? Can get a used one in a bone yard for 20 bucks if i remove it or 100 if he removes it. Then i have to do the same to mine--the bone yard one is from a 96 cavy as mine is a 95--see any problems with the year interchange? The cars are both 2 doors models and not a "Z" type. I have a detailed Chiltons manual as to how to do it but havent tackled this yet--[have done a complete engine/trans removal/install in this car so far but didnt notice the unit leaking before]... Thank you in advance for your help!!!!

I had to replace a rack and pinion on a 1988 Chrysler New Yorker, but the principle is the same. Procedure should go like this:

1. Drain the power steering fluid. The last thing you need is that stuff in your eye or down your throat.
2. Remove the front tires. Both because it will help you gain easier access to the bolts holding down the rack.
3. Open up the steering column towards where the pedals are. There should be a U-Joint connecting the steering wheel to the pinion. Get a punch set (available almost anywhere) and knock out the little silver metal piece holding the U-Joint together.
4. Unbolt any bolts holding the rack down and anything else holding it down. You might have to do this underneath the car or you can make your life simpler and remove the power steering pump (alternator, belt, damper, and bracket must be removed if you choose this).
5. Make sure the rack is unbolted from the control arms on both sides. At this point you should be able to jiggle it around a little. Make sure to disconnect any power steering fluid lines.
6. Now is the hard part. Mine was removed through the wheel well, which is probably the only way to do it. It will take a lot of pushing and pulling and another person to help you would probably be very much to your advantage.

You should have it out. Now half the job is done. Go to a parts store and get a new rack & pinion. Reverse the process and make sure all lines are reconnected, all bolts are screwed back in, and the U-Joint in the column is reattached (make sure wheels are straight). Otherwise you may end up damaging the new rack. Good luck and let us know if you need further help.

You will have to drop the back of the motor/trans cradle . No matter how you twist and the rack it will not come out belive me I tried . I replaced mine in a 97 CAV. Then after i got the recall from Chev so I just billed them for parts and labor and they paid me back.

The Car Doc--"THANK YOU" for the information about lowering the rear engine frame to allow the unit to be pulled out the drivers side--after "HOURS" of working on the R&P unit, my first time doing one, it helped to understand these better now. To anyone that wants to tackle replacing one of these units, all I can say is: " Have fun!!" Thanks again Doc...

Is this process any different on a 93 cavalier. My rack is busted, and leakingout fluid at the end of the rack.

thanks.

The 1993 rack is different as it is located higher on the firewall.