Help with Steering Gear Asy - Ford Forums - Mustang Forum, Ford Trucks, Ford Focus and Ford Cars

coz77 · 09-25-2009, 08:46

My son has a 03 v-6 Mustang. The boot on the steering gear assembly (steering rack and pinion) failed our MO inspection. I am going to replace it with a reman ford assembly. I believe I understand most of the porcedures except how the steering assembly is attached to the steering column. Can someone tell me how the column is attached to the gear assembly and how to disconnect it for removal? What concerns other than removal of the neg. battery terminal should I be aware of with the air bag? I purchased the 2 teflon "o" rings for the pressure lines and fluid. Help is greatly appreciated.

**Bert** · 09-25-2009, 08:57

Just remove the battery cable. Raise the vehicle with the key in a position so the steering wheel turns. Turn the wheels from underneath to remove th pinch bolt on the upper shaft (to the steereing column). Go back inside, turn the wheels straight ahead, turn the key off to lock the steering wheel so it doesn't turn from straight ahead. that's all to protect the air bag system.

coz77 · 09-26-2009, 08:24

rtg143, thanks for the info. Now, when I reassemble do I repeat the operation or just turn the pinch bolt so I can get to it? The part is in town but won't be delivered until Monday. Also, is the pinch bolt under a rubber cover or just above it. Sorry, but without the part in front of me I'm trying to get an image of what I'm looking for. I'm sure it will be clearer once I get it in the air and see the part. Thanks again.

**Bert** · 09-26-2009, 08:50

It should be out in the open, if you can say that. You'll be able to see it. When you reinstall, put it all back in and when you're ready to install the pinch bolt, (that's with the coupling back on the shaft like it was when you removed the pinch bolt) you turn the key back on. Then go under and install the pinch bolt. You can turn the wheels from underneath so the pinch blt can be put back in it's spot.

coz77 · 09-26-2009, 18:03

Thanks that's what I was wondering. I'll let you know how it comes out Monday or Tuesday. Thanks again.

coz77 · 09-28-2009, 15:44

rtg143, Thanks a heap. The part got here around 1 and I was done by 2. Got it back to the inspection station and the DOR with new license by 4. Broke one Teflon o-ring. Wife is happy and life is GREAT! Thanks again

**Bert** · 09-28-2009, 17:22

You're welcome. Glad you got it fixed and that your is wife happy.