Question-lets talk steering racks

[jlaird]

Ok, have mine stripped and disassembled except for the center section. Now, how important is it to take the center portion apart? I have turned it full stop both directions and it seems tight and smooth, no sticky spots or problems that I can feel. I am sure that the oil that came out is old old, supose thats a problem? Or could I just flush it with new oil good and call it a day?

 

[aeronca65t]

If the pinion shaft can be pulled in and out a bit, the thrust washer (#10) is worn. And the pinion (#9a) can be worn against the rack creating some looseness.
Both of these conditions are rare in Spridgets (I've seen them in other cars). As you say, most of these racks just need a good cleaning and fresh lube.
Be sure that the ball-ends of the rack are screwed in so that the inner tie rod ends will move easily, but does not has too much slack.
Tighten the rack clamps to the frame lightly (maybe 5 ft. lbs) and make sure the stering will turn easily before fully tightning the rack clamps (to make sure that the rack is tilted at the right angle, relative to the steering shaft).
And be sure to use a new, high-quality bolt to clamp the steering shaft to the rack spline...there's a *lot* riding on that bolt!