2000 Taurus, Rack and Pinion Replacement, Please Help!

[Tripseleven]

Hi there! I recently bought a 2000 Taurus with minimal passenger side damage (great price). The problem I have is that the rack and pinion (i believe!) is broken at the tie rod right where it screws into the tie rod. Can someone tell me how hard it is to replace this part or can I just replace that end of the rack? I work on body's and engines all the time but have limited experience on suspensions. Any help is appreciated! Thanks so much!

[mapman07]

Comparing my 2003 to my 1992, I don't see much difference in the rack and pinion. I recently replaced the rack and pinion on my mother-in-law's 1991 Taurus. Other than being difficult to get the rack out the side, then the new one back in, it wasn't all that difficult. I would recommend replacing the power steering pump and lines while you're at it. That way you're sure the fluid is clean and debris free.

The rack comes out from the driver's side, so you'll need to remove the wheel from that side. You don't need any specialty tools, either.

Good luck ,

Mark

[way2old]

If it is the tie rod that is broken, you can replace the inner tie rod and outer tie rod easier and cheaper than the rack and pinion. The inner tie rod screws out.

[Tripseleven]

Yep, its the inner tie rod that needs replaced. I picked one up today and will give it a shot. Thanks for the replies and I'll post an update on how it went when I'm done.