In the Time that I've owned my car, about 6 years, it's gone through 3 steering racks. And the shop just told me my inner tie rods are bad. Thankfully, I've utilized the "limited lifetime warranty" on steering racks from advance auto. So I've only paid for 1 rack, and keep getting re-manufactured units. It's Kinda a pain to keep doing this repair over and over. And the bottom of my car isn't getting any cleaner. My racks always leak out the boots after some time.
So, who makes the best steering rack for our cars? Best steering ratio? Rack that resists leaking the best?
Thanks,
Kyle
Are you flushing the system when you replace it?
http://www.foxtbirdcougarforums.com/showthread.php?33128-Power-steering-problems&highlight=power+steering+flush
Another good thread:
http://www.foxtbirdcougarforums.com/showthread.php?30351-Steering-Racks-and-Power-Steering-Pumps&highlight=power+steering+flush
+1 on flushing. I installed a Motorcraft reman rack (when was the last time you saw one of those?) over a decade ago and it's still going strong. I did flush the lines before installing it though. Running the 30 year old pump and it's still quiet.
Also, as far a best rack, it really depends on what your budget and intentions are. A TC or Sport rack is the best our cars came with. If you were to go with an SN95 rack, you would get better steering feel but you would also need to buy an adapter shaft.