Common Steering Parts You Should Replace Together
Many of the steering components wear at similar rates as they are subjected to similar loads and stresses. It is common for these to be replaced in a group to save labour, only to have to re-strip the car a few months later.
Tie Rod Ends and Track Rod Ends
Tie Rod Ends and Track Rod Ends – They’re opposite ends of the same rod, and do the same job. They are rarely replaced singly for the same reason. Both should be replaced at the same time to save stripping down the car some months later to replace the other. A single wheel alignment will then be required.
Rack Gaiters and Rack End Joints
The Rack Gaiters are the Rubber Boot Covers that protect the Steering Rack from dirt and grease loss. Once the gaiter has split the rack end joint on the same side will soon wear due to grit entering between the inner and outer ends of the joint.
Steering Column Joints and Intermediate Shaft Couplings
These components are often connected together in the form of a long chain running from the steering wheel, down the column, through the intermediate shaft, and then to the rack. When a steering column joint starts to wear, it is common for the intermediate shaft couplings to wear at the same time. Replacing a worn joint with a worn coupling is a false economy, as they both need to be replaced in any case.
Power Steering Pump and High-Pressure Hose
High-Pressure Hose and Power Steering Pump: High-pressure hose to a power steering pump is subjected to extreme stress whilst the steering is under load. When a pump fails, the high-pressure hose has been subjected to extreme stress for an extended period and therefore it’s logical to purchase a new pump and hose from steering parts as they are stocked together, thus avoiding another garage visit and resulting pressure failure shortly after.
All of these pairs can save you another trip to the garage in about 6 months time.
