Just installed new ball joints and tie rod assemblys in my '85 5 sp. I remember reading some where that the steering rack need to be centered. Is this necessary after the replacements I have done, before I get the wheels aligned?? If so how is it performed ??

(finding someone to align my wheels is another problem. Most shops here don't want to touch it )

Thanks in advance

 

There is a plastic screw-in cap located on the rack. It faces forward on the rack on the driver's side. Unscrew the cap. you will see the rack shaft inside the hole. turn the steering wheel unti you see a dimple in the rack shaft. When the dimple is in the center of the hole,the rack is mechanicly centered. The steering wheel should be at center now too. If not, remove and center the steering wheel. There is a centering bolt you can buy which when screwed into the hole, will touch the dimple and hold the rack in place while work is being performed like centering the steering wheel. Some people have made their own by tapering a bolt on the end. Be gentle with the centering bolt, you don't want to damage the shaft.

Once your done, remove the bolt and replace the cap.

I showed the centering hole to my alignment guy and let him center the rack and steering wheel when he did my alignment after I replaced the rack, tie-rods and a lower ball joint.

Greg

 

Thanks for the quick response!

Now that I know where it is I'll check it myself before the alignment, but that is a good idea to show the alignment tech as well!