Steering rack

[Keasbey]

Hey guys,

I've put back the svo on the road after 2 years of storage, And I never noticed but now how loose the steering feels.. What could cause this? I replace the old rackjoint by a solid one from flaming river, and the inner tie-rods are brand new.. Is it possible that the steering rack is shot? or the bushings?

[Ford Builder]

It may be a outer tie rod me bad , jack up the front end and put it on stands turn the wheels left to right with your hand and see whats worn.

[Keasbey]

I'll take a look at it.. Maybe I missed something..

[Eyelawdoc]

What year is your SVO? How many miles on it? If it's an 84, the TRW variable ratio racks that came with the cars are notorious for leaks and wear. They lacked solid "on-center" feel when new and haven't gotten any better with the passage of almost 30 years. If you replace it, go with the later Ford "performance" rack used in the 85-86 SVO's. The A-1 Cardone part number for this rack is #22207. You will need to reuse your 84 SVO mount bushings (or buy new 84 style mount bushings) to bolt the newer rack unit to your car. I made this change to my original owner 84 over 18 years ago and it's one of the best mods I ever made to the car.

[Keasbey]

Its a 85 rack, but still, I will replace it with new bushings and outer tie-rod, but make everything is allright.

[Ford Builder]

So whats your saying is your rack its self is fine?

[Chalky]

Hows your rag joint???

[dznj]

Chalkly, I think the first post he mentions that he has a Flaming River piece installed.....

[Chalky]

DOH!!!

[Ford Builder]

DOH!!! You could of had a V8.

[dznj]

You could of had a V8.

Just NOT in your SVO ;)