What were the symptoms that flagged the need for a replacement? I'm not sure I've ever seen a list of: if this happens or is happening, you need a new steering rack. That's why I asked what drove you to do so.

A while back I posted questions about my front end. Folks tried to help but were never really got to the bottom of my issues.

All are symptoms are intermittent:
Right now I feel like the wheel sometimes struggles to self center, there is a creaking noise ( more like wooden door that hasn't been opened in 50 years) from steering rack area at parking lot speed when turning wheel. I can always turn wheel with 1 finger at idle - may I then conclude power steering is ok?

When noise was occurring I had her up on a lift. Noises seemed to come from steering rack.

Of course I'm hoping for the least expensive fix, looks like a used rack costs about $300.

Hope I'm not complicating thing but: is it possibly I have an intermittent bad power steering pump? Clogged power steering fluid screen?

Thanks John

 

First things first - change your power steering fluid. My wife's 2006 XK8 uses Dexron III ATF. Check your owners manual to see what fluid works for your model year....

 

Ok thanks Jon. It has never been changed.

Is there a procedure out there anywhere for This? If it's simple, like an oil change, just let me know. Right now I'm in the dark about how to drain out old fluid.

Thanks John

 

The easiest way is just to suck it out using your wife's turkey baster kitchen implement. But do not let her catch you doing that - wait until she is out shopping somewhere....

 

I agree with the above. I used a turkey baster and later on I used one of those battery powered pumps. Cost £12 in English money but did it really fast.

You could also add some steering additive. Going to look for the name for you. Be right back.

Here you go. This stuff is called Lubegard and the reviews are good. Take a look