MidNightRunner

So my rack and pinion is making a really loud squeaking noise every time I turn the wheel. The squeaking is coming from inside where the black boot is. The fluid level is fine. Can I remove the boot and lube it or am I going to have to replace the whole thing? The response from the steering wheel isn't sloppy or anything, just want to get rid of the noise.
If I do need a new one any recommendation?

jwog666

before you blame it on the rack, the noise could be coming from a inner tie rod end, outer tie rod end, or ball joint. Sometimes the noise you swear is coming from a paticular part ends up being transmitted through the steering knuckle from the other parts iv'e mentioned. I would pop off both outer tie rod ends and then try turning the wheel if the noise is gone its most likely not the rack.

Markus989

kinda sounds like an inner tie rod the boots are in ok condition? if dirt or grime gets in theyre they can mess them up. You can press on the black boot and feel that joint in there and see if you can physically wiggle them and check for play if you have some its a probability it could be that.

MidNightRunner

The boots look to be in ok condition but they have seen some extreme weather including 110F driving in the desert so it's very possible that dust got in them.

What I really want to know here is can I remove the boot and lube it up. Don't really want to spend the money on a new rack but if I need to I want to get it soon.

Markus989

http://www.paladinmicro.com/documents/TSB-05143.pdf
paladinmicro.com/MustangSteeringRackFix.htm

did a lil homework for ya we're buddies now

MidNightRunner

Thanks man I was getting so frustrated with this. I can't wait to fix it but of course its raining all this weekend.
Thanks again man!

jjandascog

To make it even better replace the bushings with urethane ones, they are cheap and will tighted the steering up a little

MidNightRunner

Thanks I'll do that. I can't wait to get this fixed now

Sicx13

so did the bracket cure your problems? ive had the creaking noise for years and i was bout to buy a new rack. never knew ther was a TSB for it.