OEM 2000 Toyota Avalon Rack And Pinion

2000 Toyota Avalon Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: How to remove and install the Rack And Pinion on 2000 Toyota Avalon?

  A: Rack and pinion removal starts with straightening the front wheels and unfastening both the steering wheel pad and steering wheel. The removal process requires separate disconnections of the RH and LH tie rod ends together with the intermediate shaft sub-assembly and clamp plate through nut and clamp plate detachment. Special Service Tool 09631-22020 enables users to disconnect pressure feed and return tubes before extracting two O-rings from the tubes. The stabilizer bar connected properly after removing its 4 bolts yet leaving the bar in place. The installation requires removal of the No. 1 fuel tube protector by disassembling 2 bolts and nut before proceeding with PS rack and pinion assembly removal by taking out 2 set bolts and nuts while potentially lifting the stabilizer bar and being cautious to protect the turn pressure tubes from damage. Start by installing the PS rack and pinion assembly from the LH side of the vehicle followed by torquing its 2 Rack And Pinion assembly set bolts and nuts to 181 Nm (1,850 kgf.cm, 134 ft. lbs.). Insert the 2 fuel tube protector bolts and nut before assembling the stabilizer bar with 4 bolts torquing them to 19 Nm (195 kgf.cm, 14 ft. lbs.). Connect the pressure feed and return tubes with power steering fluid-coated new O-rings by using Special Service Tool: 09631-22020 to torque at 32 Nm (326 kgf.cm, 24 ft. lbs.) while keeping the torque wrench parallel to the fulcrum at 300 mm (11.81 inch). After clamping the plate to its nut at 10 Nm (100 kgf.cm, 7 ft. lbs.) the intermediate shaft sub-assembly can be connected along with the RH and LH tie rod ends. You should center the spiral cable before fitting the steering wheel while aligning the matchmarked areas. Tighten the set nut momentarily before connecting the connector. The power steering should be bled before checking the steering wheel point of center while torquing the set nut to 35 Nm (360 kgf.cm, 26 ft. lbs.) followed by steering wheel pad installation and front wheel alignment check.