rack and pinion

can anyone tell me what I would need to order to replace the rack and pinion assembly on a 2002 tacoma 2.7L 4x4 manual. I ordered parts years ago and had it installed at the shop, they said I needed to "replace the lines as well". power steering return hose...? I remember something like that but it would be nice to know so that I can order parts myself instead of getting gouged by the local shops..im also looking to replace my rear leaf springs as well. any advice is truly appreciated!!!
My truck has 435000kms on the body and about 100000kms less on the engine as it was swapped a few years back. I ve put it through the ringer on the forest service roads I travel often. is it a waste of money to invest in expensive shocks like Bilstein at this point? im still gona travel into the backcountry for the next 6 months,(and hopefully years to come) but unsure of what to do..I love this ride! I would be stoked to hear any and all opinions. thanks!

 

Not sure what all you need for the steering box, but I doubt youd be disappointed with upgrading shocks.

 

If the lines aren't currently leaking then you don't have to replace them. But if you want to replace them, I'd just order them from RockAuto. I actually had the pressure line leaking a few months back and Toyota wanted like $200 for just the line. I got a $40 one from RockAuto and was actually impressed with the build quality on it.

For the steering rack itself, order an OEM rack from Ourisman Toyota. Lastly, when you do this job, it is the optimal time to clean the filter screen at the bottom of your power steering reservoir (Timmy the Toolman has a good YouTube video showing how to do so - its easy).

Also, Bilstein shocks aren't expensive shocks. Rather they're basically the cheapest shocks with an acceptable level of offroad performance.

 

probably right on the money! thanks!

 

awesome! thanks a bunch for all of the input, I appreciate it. Rock auto is great! I discovered them a few years ago, thanks again for pointing me in the right direction!!

 

I recently replaced my rack + lines. Like mentioned, Rockauto was my source for both lines. The sunsong brand or whatever it is called. Build quality is great and pretty much fit right up with only a little manipulation.

It’s a pretty simple job, I would definitely recommend replacing the factory bushings for the rack prior to install. They are garbage at least in my experience. Replaced with poly and it feels great. Are you hoping to do the work yourself? Honestly the rack replacement was pretty straightforward, something like 7 total bolts/nuts. Don’t forget the 2 copper crush washers!

 

- OEM rack (as mentioned, Ourisman of VA)
- Rack bushings - Enegy Suspension red work well, black for stiffer rack movement
- ES grease so they don't squeak
- OEM sway bar bushings - you'll need to remove it to get extra room for the rack
- Sway bar end links if yours are leaking or aging
- Outer tie rod ends unless you think yours are in good shape

Getting the lines and shaft off aren't fun, not much room in there. Be sure to use flare nut wrenches, and even then the cams on the pressure line nuts may get bunged up. I just put a new line in for mine.

You get what you pay for, cheaper shocks tend to fail sooner.

 

thanks for the input! super appreciate it, im still learning a bunch. and all you guys who have responded are awesome!

 

thanks buds!!