Getting set to replace above. Question on where the shaft from the steering colum attaches to the spline shaft in the steering gear. I have to remove the U-joint from the spline from the old one and put on the new one. Do I need a puller, is it a pain to get off? Haynes book does not explain. I will have a puller to remove thetie-rod ends, will it work to remove the U-joint? Looks like I need to pay attention installing it on the new steering rack or my steering wheel will not be straight. Looks like the only way to adjust toe in is by removing the tie-rod end, and just keep doing it until I can get it as close as I can. Any other helpful hints would be apreciated.

 

Hey, I had one replaced on my 96 dakota, I didn't do it but it doesn't seem hard at all. I have to do it again to my new dakota, but from the dealer their260dollars... I would deffinately say that you would have to center your steering wheel whenreplacing it. Did you find an alternative to buying this part from a dealer?

 

Here is one place http://buy-steering.com/index.htmthey want $180. free shipping for you all in the 48 states no such luck for me. I found one at my local Federated parts house for $105.

 

I did mine before winter, and it was pretty easy. that steering shaft pissed me off. it took 2 hours to get it off the rack. theres a slip pin at the U joint where it meets the rack. you hav to pound that out and then hammer on the U joint to get it to slide off of the shaft. my pin was seized in there. I took a torch and heated it up to get it out.

I would take the steering shaft off first. I tried to do it last, but them the rack jumps around too much, so I had to bolt the rack back on. and I would put new power steering lines on while your down there too. and I bought new tierod ends cause mine were shot. I would take it to an alignment shop after your done too. mine took me a weekend to do, cause I had to wait for new tierods. but it should take me less then an hour if I have to do it again.