Steering gear replacement

Just had my oil changed on my '16 DCLB 4x4 with the V6 @ 64,800+ miles. Been going to this GMC dealership for over 25 years for service on all brands of vehicles. Have known the Tech since Day 1 and the Service Advisor for probably 20 years.

Was informed my Inner Axle Shaft Seals are leaking and need to be replaced.

The BIG issue is that the steering gear is going bad and should be replaced.....The Service Advisor told me the engine needs to be removed to do this and it is an 18 hour job!!!! That was according to some computer program he uses for non-GM vehicles.

I trust both guys (which is why I continue to go to this dealer) on the actual problems.

BUT, before looking for youtube videos on the issues, DOES THE ENGINE NEED TO BE PULLED TO CHANGE THE STEERING GEAR???? Gary suggested I go to a Toyota dealer to check for sure - he WASN'T trying to buffalo me into doing it there.

What is the consensus on pulling the engine guys (and gals)???

Are the axle shaft seals hard to change too???

Would rather not have to spend over $4,000 to get this work done,

Pops

 

steering gear?

do they know what they are talking about? why do they think there is any issue with the steering?

 

The steering rack is a beyotch to remove, but it can be done.

First though if the rack feels okay, try some of this:

$18 Genuine Mazda 0000-77-112E-01 Transmission Fluid

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GKGCP5G​

It is a fully compatible fluid for our racks per the OM.

I had weeping seals and just a little bit of it seemed to condition them. My rack boots used to be wet on the bottom, now they're good to go. This was done back in late 2019 or early 2020.

 

Do you mean a steering rack? If yes,, don't need to remove engine, but need to remove oil filter/cooler assembly

 

I assume it is the steering rack, but just going by what is typed on the paperwork.

 

On the surface this sounds at worst malicious and at best incompetent. Technically there's a steering rack and it's very rare to need replacing at that age and mileage. I would ask for the specific diagnosis (with evidence) of how they came to this conclusion. No, the engine need not be removed, that's a little absurd. Replacing front axle seals would be about a 2 hour job for a good shop.

That uneasy feeling that made you come and ask about this, it's telling you something.

 

I find it hard to believe that both of your front axle seals are leaking at the same time too. It takes a max of 1.5 each side to go in and replace them. I have done numerous ones.

 

if there is some slop at the rack the slider bushing preload can be adjusted. Take it to a place that knows tacomas.

 

PLEASE DISREGARD ENTIRE THREAD!!!!! UNTIL NOW......

Gary, the Service Advisor called me an hour and a half ago and apologized for misinformation he gave me. He talked to Jim (my buddy the Tech) directly. Jim had told the young lube techs what was wrong and they told Gary what I had stated were problems. Instead, the power steering pump has a leak and also the front differential has a seal leaking. That is it!!!

So, NO maliciousness or incompetence, just mis-communication.

Any good YouTube video recommendations on these fixes????

Thanks!!!

 

Likely not the PS pump, but the timing cover seal.