Steering Rack

[q45t96]

Just had my steering rack replaced. Drove it home and the steering is still stiff. It doesn't feel any different then when I took it to them. I had them replace the rack and use Mobile 1 synthetic ATF to refill. Any ideas on what is going on? Any help would be appreciated.

[maxnix]

Did they adjust the drive belt to FSM specification and check its pulley?

Might want to add a little conditoner to the M1 ATF. I will post up in a few days why.
Modified by maxnix at 6:01 AM 10/22/2005

[Q45tech]

Why would you replace rack assembly unless it is leaking from abusive lack of fluid changes? Still have/use my oem [rack and pump] after 15.5 years and 299k.

Usual failure mode is electronic pressure controller [speed sensor/ speedo head IC, translation module- volt to pressure, solenoid wiring/wiring in general].

Actually nothing has failed on mine but I perform annual fluid exchanges and visual inspections. ========Torn rack boots excepted.

Important to test the solenoid voltage/duty cycle [test pin in Consult connector socket] vs vehicle speed to determine what's happening........explained in manual.

[tkd_q45]

I would replace my well functioning rack for a quicker steering >92MY rack.

[q45t96]

Q45tech

You are right, I did nelgect the fluids in my power steering. Bad Move! I have tried to do most of the recommended maintenance, but for whatever reason I missed that one. The information I have been able to obtain from this site has been excellent and I appreciate the help.

Can any technician perform the selonoid test or is it Infiniti specialized? I live 120 miles form Vegas and do not have easy access to a good Infiniti technician. Thanks again!

[Q45tech]

Per FSM you just read the voltage [at the Consult port] FROM the Power Steering presure control module while driving at various speeds.

See graph in FSM.

Remember the viscosity of PS fluid [and thus pressure] changes with temperature.

The preload [tightness] of steering rack controlled by pinion gear adjustment see FSM.

The point is you must set it cold so it doesn't bind in winter startup yet not be too loosey goosey in summer heat after all day drive at 100F. Why Mobil 1 Syn ATF works more concisely and closer controlled viscosity over wide temperature ranges from Zero to 212F.

Few engineers and fewer technicans and very few general mechanics EVER get involved with Changing steering rack parameters.............why so many crappy steering cars out there...............as they wear and age past 60k.

You can set it from way too easy to just right........to impossible to turn with combination of ATF selection [PS Fluid] and rack preload.

[ScottJackson]

read my post about my stiff steering issue. I went thru the whole deal of pulling off the solenoid and even taking apart the solenoid to make sure it was clean after it tested good when hooked to 12V. I then checked the little module for the steering behind the dash between the steering column and radio which supposedly goes out on J30s from time to time. If you have your pump pressure tested at a dealer and the "control valve" in the pump is sticking like mine was due to a little grit, it won't build pressure in the lines and you'll get charged for a new pump, which would fix the problem. but why do that when you could probably fix it yourself for free? The main thing is to be very clean when dealing with the little plunger control valve and the brass sealing washers after you flush the pump out as you don't want to redo the process just because you left a little grime on the brass washer or in the valve.