Date:         Sun, 18 Jul 2021 10:44:14 -0700
Reply-To:     alex@MEVAY.ORG
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Alex MeVay <alex@MEVAY.ORG>
Subject:      Non-garbage manual steering racks?
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="UTF-8"

Is anyone aware of manual steering racks available from other than JP
group?  ...that will hold up to driving off pavement?

My van developed a new rattle/clunk recently and seemed to wander on
the highway a little.  I crawled under for a proper inspection this AM
and was shocked to see the ends of my steering rack moving ~1/2"
radially.

This rack was replaced a year ago to the day, and has 6k miles on it.
The previous JP group rack failed the same way after 4 years and ~25k
miles, but I gave it the benefit of the doubt because of a torn boot.
Sheesh.

I think I got rid of my original ZF rack, but I'd also be curious if
there are any rebuilders out there who can do a good job with an
original core.

Alternatively, if this failure is caused by some pressed-in bushing
migrating to somewhere improper, I wonder if some appropriately placed
screws from the outside would allow the rack to hold up.

Any recommendations are greatly appreciated.

Alex