Mustang Cobra V8-281 4.6L DOHC VIN V MFI (1997)
Steering Gear: Service and Repair
Replacement
Part 1 Of 2
NOTE: The power rack and pinion steering gear is serviced as a power steering short rack.
REMOVAL
1. Disconnect battery ground cable. Turn ignition switch to RUN position.
2. Raise vehicle on hoist. Position drain pan to catch fluid from power steering lines.
3. Remove one bolt retaining flexible coupling to power steering gear input shaft and control.
4. Remove cotter pins and retaining nuts from the tie rod ends. Separate studs from front wheel spindles, using Tie Rod End Remover TOOL-3290-D
or equivalent.
5. Remove two nuts, insulators, washers and bolts retaining power rack and pinion steering gear to No.2 front crossmember.
6. Remove front rubber insulators.
7. Position power rack and pinion steering gear to allow access to hydraulic lines and disconnect lines.
8. Remove power rack and pinion steering gear.
NOTE: If the insulator sleeve is damaged, it can be replaced. Remove the sleeve by collapsing it with a pair of vise-grip pliers and twisting and
pulling. Install the new sleeve and draw it into position with the mounting bolt during steering gear installation.
9. If the power steering short rack is being replaced, tag and remove LH and RH front wheel spindle tie rods.
INSTALLATION
1. If installing a new power steering short rack, install RH and LH front wheel spindle tie rods in Disassembly and Assembly.
2. Install new plastic seals on hydraulic line fittings.
3. Install power rack and pinion steering gear on mounting spikes.
CAUTION: The hoses are designed to swivel when properly tightened. Do not attempt to eliminate looseness by overtightening fittings or plastic
seals may become damaged.
4. Install hydraulic lines. Tighten fittings to 27-34 Nm (20-25 ft. lbs.).
5. Install front rubber insulators. Make sure all rubber insulators are pushed completely inside the steering gear housing before installing the
mounting bolts.
6. Insert power steering gear input shaft into flexible coupling. Install two mounting bolts, insulator washers and nuts. Tighten the two nuts to 41-54