Steering rack bushings

[VG33QX4]

I need to replace mine they have 160,000 on them. The rack moves let to right about a half inch during operations which I beleive is causing my wheel shimmy at speeds above 45. Tires are balanced and alignment is good

Now the question is. What size are the rack mount bolts. And does anything other than the actual brackets themselves need to be removed in order to replace the bushings.

I would like a little DIY if possible. I want to make sure that all I gotta do is pull 4 bolts and replace bushings. Thanks

[ltsnotme]

Take pictures as you go, 'cause I might need to do this soon.
My steering's been weird lately.

[devonianwalk]

Make sure to check your PS fluid level first. If low, check for signs of leakage. I recently have had similar issues and have discovered a leak on the driver side rack. I first noticed the leak coming down from the inner tie rod.

[VG33QX4]

So I took plunge without instructions. I will start by saying that this cured my problem of shaky steering wheel at random speeds but always on uneven paved roads. I checked everything tires, rims, tie rods, strut mounts, alignment. All where replaced prior to this issue. The issue was simply the bushings.

DIY. It's not fun

Remove slash guard
Remove splash guard brace 4 bolts 17mm.
Remove rack bolts qty 4 size 22mm
Use pry bar to lift up rack on driver side near adjusting nut at bottom of rack. Important!!! Pull rack towards front of car as you pry up, this gets the weight of the rack off of the bushing. Slide old bushings out using flathead screwdriver.

Upon removal and reinstall I ran into a snag. The bolts were really dirty and didn't want to go back in. I got a tap and die to run down all holes and bolts. Reassembled with appropriate loctite

Bolt tap and die size needed. M14x1.50 fine thread

Ps previously before replacement my rack moved one inch left to right during operation. Get a friend to wiggle wheel back and forth while you look under the car to watch the rack. If its moving replace. The steering feel difference is night and day. It's literally like driving a brand new car. Smooth and tight. Good luck. I also advise degreasing and pressure washing the underside Prior to working. My truck was terribly oily because the oil filter is directly above the steering rack bushing. After age the oil balloons the bushing and makes it useless.

[shelby500krz]

I think I will be doing this this winter because I have continually noticed that my steering is extremely loose at highway speeds. Thanks for the info. Do you have any pics?

[RR425]

How many are there? Two? Probably should replace them on mine with poly before they go bad.