Rack And Pinion Bellows Kits
A rack boot covers the steering rack end and inner tie-rod area, helping keep dirt and moisture away from the moving connection. The bellows must fit the steering gear and have room to extend and compress as the wheels turn.
The collection includes Beck/Arnley kits for specific applications, including left-side listings. Select the boot for the position and steering gear being serviced.
Choosing A Steering Rack Boot
Compare the inside diameter at each end and the boot's length with the specified application. The larger opening fits the gear housing; the other fits the tie-rod side, and their sizes are not generally interchangeable.
A kit may be listed as one set, one piece or for a particular side. Read the package details for the boot and retaining hardware needed for the repair.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is a steering rack boot the same as a CV boot?
A rack boot protects a steering gear connection; a CV boot covers a joint on a drive axle. Similar accordion shapes do not make the two parts interchangeable.
Does a stain on the boot always mean the steering rack is leaking?
A stain alone does not establish a fluid leak. GM notes that grease can liquefy and stain the bellows on certain vehicles; check fluid loss and inspect for an active leak before deciding on a steering-gear repair.
Does a replacement boot repair a leaking hydraulic rack seal?
The bellows is a protective cover, not the rack's internal hydraulic seal. Fluid collecting inside the boot requires diagnosis of the steering gear and leak source as well as any damaged boot.
Are clamps included with every bellows kit?
Clamps and other hardware vary by package. The kit description should identify the included parts; arrange the correct retaining hardware when it is not supplied.
Can changing a rack boot affect wheel alignment?
If the repair requires removing or adjusting a tie rod, its position can affect toe alignment. MOOG recommends an alignment after outer tie-rod replacement; follow the vehicle's procedure for the work performed.
