I need to replace the steering inner rod on a 87 ZF type Power steering gear. The replacement is with the steering gear on the vehicle.
Before I torque down the inner rod socket attached to the rack, should I hold the rack side by any means? Just not sure if the steering rack can take the torque.

Also, when done, with the replacement, should I apply some grease inside the area where the boots will be placed? I red that ZF steering gears are lubricated by grease but not sure what location they meant.

Thanks for the input.

Richard

 

Ok, since nobody replied so far, I thought I did not write the message properly.
I meant by "torque down" that I want to unscrew the bad inner rod from the rack and screw on the new one. I need to know if the rack needs to be held while you use the wrench on the inner rod body.

 

Yes, you do have to hold down the rod. There should be a flattened spot where a wrench can fit to hold while you are undoing the end. And there is grease inside those boots--I'd splatter some common axle grease in there.

 

TEDV,

Thanks but I think you are describing the other end, near the tie rod end. But I am looking for directions for the inner rod end that is tied to the rack.
I wanted to send a picture to show the location but I have not found how to do this yet.

 

Here is the picture, attached, I wanted to send. It shows the end I need to unsscrew/screw on to the rack.
This end , past the ball joint, near the rack, has two flats to be able to place a wrench but what do you do with the rack?
DO I need to hold it somehow or you just let the steering gear assembly take the torque?
I did not see any flats or other features on the rack bar from which I can hold, while turning the inner rod side,

Thanks again for the help.

 

try this:
describes it better,
http://www.brickboard.com/FAQ/700-90...RodReplacement

 

TEDV,

Brickboard had the details posted. Thank you very much!
Here is the specific link for 84 240 Volvo with ZF steering gears.

http://www.brickboard.com/RWD/index....066&show_all=1

Regards

 

That FAQ mentions re peening the inner rod end on reinstallation, which is fine. I just peen in several spots and use Loctite on teh threads. Loctite is easy to get around next time, just heat the end of the steering rack a little. You won't be doing the job again for a good, long while anyway.
I've also never had an issue with rack seals by just turning the inner rod end with a spanner and not stopping the rack rotating, the amount of movement allowed by holding the rack with an adjustable spanner is similar to not supporting it at all. The rack sees far worse punishment in day to day service..........

Regards, Andrew.