I haven't had to post much here since the majority of my questions have already been answered in the archives!

I noticed some steering vibration on my '84 DL wagon at high speeds, so I jacked it up and saw my right inner tie rod end had some play in it.

Since a replacement rack is in order, what all are my options? The current rack is a ZF with power steering. I've never driven a 240 with manual steering, but I prefer it on the other machines I drive, so am open to that possibility.

I read that the steering shaft diameter changed in '79 from 14 mm to 19 mm. Can I grab any rack I want at the junkyard as long as I make sure to also get the lower end of the steering shaft if it's a pre-'79? Would anything else be different?

Thanks!

 

Why not just replace the inner tie rod ends? They are available from FCP. If you must replace the rack, check out these folks:

Steering gears and steering gearboxes, rack and pinion steering gears and more.

They are very knowledgeable about the different racks that were used on the 240s. They would be able to answer your question.

 

Looking at the Bentley made me think only the outer tie rod ends were replaceable. I was hoping to hit the junkyard this weekend, but I guess I have more research to do. Thanks!

 

Volvo did not sell replacements for the inner tie rods but aftermarket vendors do. Check www.fcpeuro.com or European Auto Parts - Wholesale Genuine and OEM Saab BMW Volvo Parts. Both sites carry the inner tie rod ends. Just make sure you thoroughly check the type of rack you have before you purchase. There were various racks installed on these cars.

 

Thanks!

I just ordered an inner tie rod and two new boots from FCP. Thankfully I looked at the casting on the rack itself to see it was ZF. A previous owner must have replaced it since the trunk sticker says it should be Camgear.

I am still curious about my rack options, though. The rack I have is a little overboosted for my taste, so any info people have would be helpful. I am also contacting JAC and will post what they tell me if it would be helpful to others.