Rack Removal - Please Help

[k1elliott]

Hi All.

I'm still trying to remove the rack from my UCF20 LS400.

I have the feed and return pipes disconnected and both brackets off along with the outer rod ends. However, despite days of trying, I cannot get the rack off the vehicle.

There is play between the steering shaft and the rack so it's not stuck onto the shaft. I can move it towards the driver side a good bit but then it gets jammed.

The repair manual says to take the steering wheel off but I can't see what good that would do plus I need a special tool.

Are there any tips or advice for doing this please?

Thanks in advance for your help.

Cheers,

Ken.

edit: - It appears to be jamming between the suspension cross member and the transmission. Is it worth putting some upward pressure on the transmission to gain some clearance or is this too dangerous?

[SteveLS400]

Hi All.

I'm still trying to remove the rack from my UCF20 LS400.

I have the feed and return pipes disconnected and both brackets off along with the outer rod ends. However, despite days of trying, I cannot get the rack off the vehicle.

There is play between the steering shaft and the rack so it's not stuck onto the shaft. I can move it towards the driver side a good bit but then it gets jammed.

The repair manual says to take the steering wheel off but I can't see what good that would do plus I need a special tool.

Are there any tips or advice for doing this please?

Thanks in advance for your help.

Cheers,

Ken.

edit: - It appears to be jamming between the suspension cross member and the transmission. Is it worth putting some upward pressure on the transmission to gain some clearance or is this too dangerous?

You could try PMing Benfur. He breaks these and often knows techniques to remove parts and fittings.

[k1elliott]

You could try PMing Benfur. He breaks these and often knows techniques to remove parts and fittings.

Thanks. Good idea.

EDIT: - He has kindly responded.

To update: - I've made things a bit difficult for myself. I removed the brackets and pispes then tried to separate the steering joint which is proving difficult and I am getting covered in fluid.

To make things worse again I have moved the steering wheel way off straight ahead which means I now also have problems with the airbag clock spring.

With benfur's approval, I'll post up the proper procedure once I've resolved all my issues.

It's a real pity as I was (or at least thought I was) making good progress and hoping to have her back on the road before now (with my new dics and pads too).

Ah well..... we learn by our mistakes