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Rack & pinion steering replacement for 00 rpo fe2

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Old 12-31-2013, 02:09 PM
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Default Rack & pinion steering replacement for 00 rpo fe2

Hi, Been searching threads but haven't found exactly what I need answered. I need a new R&P for above b/c of leaking- my question; Are there any "How to Vids" for my specific car? Is this something I can do in the garage or better left to pros (I don't have advanced mechanical skills). I'm looking at remanufactured units on ebay. I've been looking at rebuild kits also but it seems easier to just buy a complete unit unless I'm doing it myself Thanks in advance

P.S. What is AVERAGE Labor hours involved for a Pro?

Last edited by Double J; 12-31-2013 at 02:15 PM.
Old 12-31-2013, 03:19 PM
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I'd recommend you get the new unit from Rack Doctor. I think I paid $200 shipped for the FE4, including the $65 core deposit.
Old 12-31-2013, 03:19 PM
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It's not all that hard to do and there are a couple threads on here. You just need to unbolt the tie rod ends and then there are 2 bolts holding the rack in. One comes out easy and the other is designed to be lifted up towards the oil pan however it will not clear it. Here you must use a sawzall and cut it off then simply go get a bolt from Home Depot and install it from the bottom. It took me around 5 hours I have no idea what the pro time would be
Old 01-01-2014, 01:49 PM
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Originally Posted by redbird555
It's not all that hard to do and there are a couple threads on here. You just need to unbolt the tie rod ends and then there are 2 bolts holding the rack in. One comes out easy and the other is designed to be lifted up towards the oil pan however it will not clear it. Here you must use a sawzall and cut it off then simply go get a bolt from Home Depot and install it from the bottom. It took me around 5 hours I have no idea what the pro time would be
Thank you, I read that it requires the motor to be lifted to replace Is that correct?
Old 01-01-2014, 01:52 PM
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Flat rate time is 3.4 hrs
Old 01-01-2014, 01:53 PM
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Originally Posted by Double J
Thank you, I read that it requires the motor to be lifted to replace Is that correct?
Also what about the line(S) to power steering are they drained?
I got a quote from a local Chevrolet dealer $315.00 for labor @ $105.00 an hour
Old 01-01-2014, 01:57 PM
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Yes, the motor has to be lifted to remove the one bolt.You should drain the hoses and the pump.Also I would put a inline filter on.
Old 01-01-2014, 02:14 PM
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Originally Posted by LS1Z28
Yes, the motor has to be lifted to remove the one bolt.You should drain the hoses and the pump.Also I would put a inline filter on.
Well looks like it'll be done by Chevrolet since I don't have an engine hoist although one person on here said I can use a sawzall to cut the bolt, what are your thoughts about that? thanks
Old 01-01-2014, 02:17 PM
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My thoughts are do it right or don't do it at all!
Old 01-01-2014, 03:21 PM
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Do yourself a favor and cut the bolt so you can Loctite and install it upside down. Future replacements will be that much easier.
Old 01-01-2014, 05:10 PM
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**** that 315 bucks. cut that bolt. even a dremel or something will work if you dont have a sawzall.
Old 01-01-2014, 05:43 PM
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Good old fashion hacksaw works fine.
Old 01-02-2014, 12:36 PM
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What about the tie rods, how do I insure they are installed properly I.E. Correctly balanced on each side?
Old 01-02-2014, 01:54 PM
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Originally Posted by LS1Z28
Yes, the motor has to be lifted to remove the one bolt.You should drain the hoses and the pump.Also I would put a inline filter on.
Does the engine get lifted enough to be able to do the motor mounts at the same time to save some labor costs??
Old 01-02-2014, 07:26 PM
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Originally Posted by dailydriver
Does the engine get lifted enough to be able to do the motor mounts at the same time to save some labor costs??
It can be.
Old 01-03-2014, 11:41 AM
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Originally Posted by LS1Z28
Yes, the motor has to be lifted to remove the one bolt.You should drain the hoses and the pump.Also I would put a inline filter on.
Inline Filter? Where is that attached?
Old 01-03-2014, 02:31 PM
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All i did was unbolted one motor mount and used a floor jack to lift the motor slightly. bolts came out easy.
Old 01-03-2014, 03:51 PM
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Originally Posted by Double J
Inline Filter? Where is that attached?
Tothe hose.
Old 01-04-2014, 02:12 PM
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Originally Posted by LS1Z28
Tothe hose.

Make sure it is the LOW PRESSURE/return side hose!
Old 01-05-2014, 01:16 PM
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Originally Posted by dailydriver
Make sure it is the LOW PRESSURE/return side hose!
Which of the lines is the Low pressure return hose? Thanks


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