I am looking on e-bay to find a re manufactured power steering rack. I see one advertised for a 1999-2006 model XK8 or XKR. Will this unit fit my 1998 model XK8? I see others advertised for 1997 - 2006 models. What would be different? Any help here is appreciated. Thanks.

 

I had no idea about this and was hoping someone would know and post the answer!

As no one has, I've done some digging for information. As you can see from the Parts Catalogue, there's several P/N changes in the early VIN range. The P/N suffix changes but the core number MJC3901 remains the same:



Advertisers, particularly with used parts, don't seem clear on compatibility. There's only two certainties:

1. LHD and RHD are different
2. XK8 and XKR are different

You therefore need an XK8 rack because the XKR will not fit but, within this limitation, it appears that anything from 1997 to 2006 will fit.

Graham

 

Graham - Thanks for looking into this. You confirmed what I could only assume without some kind of evidence. Your input here is very much appreciated. I can now make a purchase with some confidence.

This is a great forum. Thanks again.

Jeff

 

Can anyone tell me whether we can shim the control arm that goes into the steering rack? (jag XK8 98)

 

Hi Michelle,

I don't know if I can answer the question. But maybe I'm not sure what your asking. I just dropped my steering rack and didn't see any place where it can be shimmed and am not sure what benefit you are looking for here. Maybe by restating the question you will get more responses. Best of luck.

 

I am almost ready to reassemble my steering system. I ordered the rebuilt rack and it should be here any day now. I have two more questions.

1. What is the correct power steering fluid to use when replacing the old. Standard power steering fluid? automatic transmission fluid? A specially formulated fluid?
2. What is the best way to reconnect the rack to the steering column. I unhooked the universal joint from the splined shaft on the way out but am thinking that will be a pain in the you know what gong back in.

Any suggestions here are very much appreciated. So far you guys have been a big help with my project. Excellent forum!

Best regards,
Jeff

 

Without looking at a owners manual for your year I can't be positive. But I can tell you that the manuals for both my 1997 XK8 and 2003 X-Type say Detron III. Do I think it's safe to say that yours should use the same.
If you find away to get that steering U-joint all the way back on the pinion shaft let me know. I managed to get mine about 2/3 of the way and just tightened it down. I don't think it's going to be able to come off since there's no real play at that point. I've taken several road trips and mine hasn't moved from where I set it. One of these days when I don't have anything better to do, I might give it another try.