Genuine Toyota Rack And Pinion

Toyota Tacoma Rack And Pinion Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: How to remove and install the steering gear assembly on 2005 through 2009 Toyota Tacoma?

  A: Ensure the front wheels are pointed straight ahead and apply the parking brake. Disconnect the cable from the negative terminal of the battery. Loosen the wheel lug nuts, raise the front of the vehicle, and support it securely on jackstands before removing the front wheels. Remove the lower engine splash shield at the front. For 4WD and Prerunner models, remove the front exhaust pipe assemblies that include the catalytic converters and oxygen sensors, followed by all driveshaft assemblies including the front driveshaft. Remove the stabilizer bar. For all models, disconnect the tie-rod ends from the steering knuckles, mark the upper and lower intermediate shaft in relation to the shaft coupler, and remove both pinch bolts. Remove the U-joint coupler pinch bolt at the bottom of the lower intermediate shaft where it connects to the Rack And Pinion input shaft. Slide the U-joint up from the Rack And Pinion, mark the Rack And Pinion input shaft in relation to the U-joint, and then slide it back down to its normal position. Slide the shaft coupler up onto the upper intermediate shaft to allow the two shafts to separate, then pull the lower intermediate shaft U-joint off the Rack And Pinion input shaft and remove it. Detach the pressure and return line bracket(s) from the Rack And Pinion, use a flare wrench to disconnect the pressure line, and pull the return hose from the fitting. Remove the Rack And Pinion mounting fasteners while holding the mounting nuts and turning the mounting bolts. On 4WD and PreRunner models, support the rear crossmember with a floor jack, remove the mounting fasteners, and lower it to tilt the front of the engine up, providing the necessary clearance to remove the Rack And Pinion assembly by carefully angling it down and moving it from side to side until it's clear of the crossmember. Installation is the reverse of removal, ensuring all match marks are aligned and all fasteners are tightened to the specified torque values. Tighten the wheel lug nuts accordingly. For models equipped with VSC TRAC, any repairs to the steering components may require calibration of the system's various sensors, indicated by a warning light at the instrument cluster. If no warning light is present, the system should be normal, but calibration may require special tools and expertise. The vehicle can be driven to a dealership service department or qualified repair for calibration if necessary. Additionally, bleed the power steering system and have the front end alignment checked and adjusted if needed.