How to Install a New Steering Rack in a Nissan Pathfinder

How to Install a New Steering Rack in a Nissan Pathfinder. The Nissan Pathfinder grew from compact scale to mid-sized SUV during its three production generations. The original 1986 model featured two different body styles, but the remaining generations have been limited to a four-door model. The models introduced in 2005 feature both rack and pinion steering and a recirculating ball gear. You can install a new power-steering rack on pinion rack on 2005 and later models with the following steps.

Consider standard precautions before beginning installation. Car owners typically disconnect battery cables and lock the steering wheel to keep the front wheels at straight center. Raising the front end could make it easier to reach the undercarriage.

Pull the front wheels (and the front differential assembly if your Pathfinder is four-wheel drive). Remove the stabilizer bar brackets, the steering socket cotter pins and steering socket nuts. Discard the cotter pins. Uncouple the outer sockets and steering knuckles.

Keep a drain pan underneath the steering gear when you remove the hoses. Disconnect both hoses and plug them to avoid contamination.

Find the bolt connecting the steering gear to the lower steering shaft and remove it. Remove the gear mounting nuts and your steering rack is ready to pull.

Install the new rack. Reassemble the steering system in the reverse order or disassembly. Use new cotter pins for the steering socket.

Add steering fluid and idle the engine to check the levels and leaks. Adjust the toe if the wheels are out of alignment.