Date:         Wed, 8 Jul 1998 07:34:13 -0400
Reply-To:     EMZ <vw4x4@FYI.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <Vanagon@vanagon.com>
From:         EMZ <vw4x4@FYI.NET>
Subject:      Re: r&r ps rack question on 86
Comments: To: Karl Vochatzer <karl@C2O.COM>
Comments: cc: Vanagon@VANAGON.COM
In-Reply-To:  <359B1E68.9D96E498@c2o.com>
Content-Type: TEXT/PLAIN; charset=US-ASCII

On Thu, 2 Jul 1998, Karl Vochatzer wrote:

> Replaced the power steering rack on the 86 a few months ago, but misaligned
> the steering wheel with the rack spindal.  Now I'm trying to straighten it
> out, but I can't seem to find the trick for keeping everything (tires,
> steering wheel and rack) all lined up and getting that damn double u-joint
> to move onto the rack's spindal.
>
> Anyone have any tricks of the trade?
>
> TIA,
>
> Karl
     It's very simple. Put the tie rod ends on the already installed
  P.S. rack, making sure that you put each one on the same number
  of threads. (simply count the turns). Do the front end alignment.
This is also simple, by measureing the front and back of the tires
and adjust the tie rods so that the front of the tires and the back of the
tires are the same distance apart. Make sure you turn each tie rods
the same number of turns. This keeps the rack centered. Then drive
the vehicle and park it going straight. Remove
the steering wheel and replace it in the straight position.
Much easier than you think.
                                     Eric