Detroit Axle Rack and Pinion Review: The Key to Safe
All vehicles come equipped with a rack and pinion. These parts are indispensable components responsible for transferring linear force from the steering to the wheels to facilitate rotation.
Without them, you'll find it difficult to steer your vehicles left or right.
Due to how invaluable rack and pinions are, you must always look out for damages or failures. Since they don't last forever, you need to start searching for suitable replacements immediately you notice any sign of breakdown.
These Detroit Axle Rack and Pinion reviews will round up the best rack and pinion replacements in the market.
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What You Should Know
Detroit Axle rack and pinions are high-quality power steering components that ensure your vehicle steers smoothly and without mechanical issues.
Below are some of the features of quality racks and pinions in the Detroit Axle reviews.
Features of the Detroit Axle Complete Power Steering Rack & Pinion Assembly With No MagnaSteer
- Brand: Detroit Axle
- Model: Complete Power Steering Rack & Pinion Assembly With No Magnasteer
- Item Weight: 22 Pounds
Find out more about this rack and pinion here.
Feature of the Detroit Axle Complete Power Steering Rack and Pinion Assembly for Non-Electric Steering
- Brand: Detroit Axle
- Model: Complete Power Steering Rack and Pinion Assembly for Non-Electric Steering
- Item Weight: 28 Pounds
Find out more about this rack and pinion on this website.
Features of the Detroit Axle Remanufactured Power Steering Rack and Pinion Assembly With Inner & Outer Tie Rod Ends
- Brand: Detroit Axle
- Model: Remanufactured Power Steering Rack and Pinion Assembly With Inner & Outer Tie Rod Ends
- Item Weight: 28 Pounds
Find out more about this rack and pinion here.
Features of the Detroit Axle Complete Power Steering Rack and Pinion Assembly Replacement for Camry Avalon
- Brand: Detroit Axle
- Model: Complete Power Steering Rack and Pinion Assembly Replacement for Camry Avalon
- Weight: 22 Pounds
Find out more about this rack and pinion website.
Features of the Flaming River FR1503 Manual Rack and Pinion for 79-93 Mustang
- Brand: Flaming River
- Model: FR1503 Manual Rack and Pinion for 79-93 Mustang
- Weight: 22 Pounds
Find out more about this rack and pinion here.
Features of the Detroit Axle for 2002 - 2004 Nissan Altima Complete Power Steering Rack & Pinion Assembly + All 4 Inner & Outer Tie Rod Ends
- Brand: Detroit Axle
- Model: 2002 - 2004 Nissan Altima Complete Power Steering Rack & Pinion Assembly + All 4 Inner & Outer Tie Rod Ends
- Weight: 21 Pounds
Top Pick Section
Best for Overall Performance - Detroit Axle Complete Power Steering Rack & Pinion Assembly With No Magnasteer
This Detroit Axle rack and pinion includes everything that ensures you have an overall smooth steering and rotation performance.
Best for Durability - Detroit Axle Complete Power Steering Rack and Pinion Assembly for Non-Electric Steering
This quality suspension system is designed ruggedly and robust to enhance the vehicle’s steering ability and for long-lasting use.
Best for Compatibility - Detroit Axle Remanufactured Power Steering Rack and Pinion Assembly With Inner & Outer Tie Rod Ends
The Detroit Axle Remanufactured rack and pinions are designed to be compatible with several vehicle brands and models without compromising the assembly.
Best for Easy Installation - Detroit Axle Complete Power Steering Rack and Pinion Assembly Replacement for Camry Avalon
With the right tools, this product is seamless to install in compatible vehicles.Detroit Axle Rack and Pinion Review
If you want a durable rack and pinion that can survive all road conditions, I suggest you get this Detroit Axle rack and pinion assembly.
Rack & Pinion Assembly with No Magnasteer is a uniquely designed system with new oil and lip seals. These essential seals maintain the oil in the system to keep it appropriately greased for more efficient performance. The seals also prevent the oil from leaking overtime.
Installing this product is convenient, as the replacement kit comes with all the tools to aid the process. As long as this rack and pinion is compatible with your vehicle, you won't have any issue fitting them in.
When you purchase this product, you get a lifetime warranty. This means you don’t need to be afraid of the product breaking down suddenly. Plus, you can contact the manufacturer if any issue should spring up within the warranty period.
Although this rack and pinion is not compatible with cars whose models are relatively newer, it is one of the best aftermarket options in the market to replace your failed rack and pinion.
Some aftermarket rack and pinion assemblies often develop leaks or faults after using them for specific periods. However, this Detroit Axle Complete Power Steering rack and pinion assembly give no such issues.
The quality of this set of power steering rack and pinion is exceptional. It's been rigorously tested to withstand the pressure of any degree, ensuring the best steering performance in all circumstances.
This product is compatible with cars like Pontiac 03 Grand AM. However, I suggest that you look at the product’s specifications to see if it fits your vehicle beforehand. You wouldn’t want to regret later upon finding out that your purchased product isn’t compatible with your car model.
Apart from being compatible, the product is easy to install. It comes with all the accessories that will make the process straightforward.
These suspensions come with a lifetime warranty, further explaining the high durability of this product. You can use it for a very long time without experiencing any fault.
Rack and Pinion Assembly for Non-electric Steering comes at an affordable price. With this product, you don't need to spend so much to find replacements for your car's worn-out rack and pinion systems.
This product, however, isn't compatible with many cars. Therefore, you need to verify its compatibility with your vehicle, as the Detroit Axle transmission reviews previously suggested.
![Detroit Axle - REMANUFACTURED Power Steering Rack and Pinion Assembly, Inner & Outer Tie Rod Ends- No MagnaSteer [Re-Manufactured, without MagnaSteer]](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/516IL4phJ%2BL._AC_SL1024_.jpg)
Rack and Pinion Assembly With Inner & Outer Tie Rod Ends include most accessories you need to install in your car without any Magnasteer.
This rack and pinion is highly compatible with several vehicle models. Whether you have a Buick Century 1997, Lacrosse 2005, or a Chevrolet Impala 2011, it fits into them impeccably.
With this product, you do not need to worry about endangering your safety. The system has been hydraulically tested to ensure it's safe to use and withstands pressure.
This rack and pinion includes new oil and lip seals to ensure no power steering fluid leaks from the assembly.
The product comes with a decent lifetime warranty, just like the other two systems already discussed in this Detroit Axle rack and pinion review.
Despite the product’s great features and what it offers, it’s not without some downsides. During testing, my team noticed that some tools and accessories, like a plastic ring, were missing. This means purchasing the part at some extra costs.
Also, it was relatively tough steering the wheels after installing this rack and pinion in some vehicles. However, adjusting the rack and pinion screw made the steering more comfortable.
If you own a Toyota car, such as Camry or Avalon, and are looking for a complete set of rack and pinion assembly that will fit in, this assembly replacement is your ideal choice.
Rack and Pinion Assembly Replacement for Camry Avalon has been tested thoroughly to ensure they meet safety standards. With this, you are assured of installing a safe product in your vehicle.
This Detroit Axle includes new oil and lip seals that ensure there are no fluid leaks. With no leaks, you can make turns expertly and without any compromise.
One thing I love about this power steering rack and pinion is its lifetime warranty. Unlike some other aftermarket products that come with a limited warranty, this assembly has a lifetime warranty.
In the advent of any damage or fault, you can contact the seller, and the manufacturer will fix whatever defect the product has.
The downside of this rack and pinion assembly is that no outer rod ends are included in the package. It only comes with inner tie rod ends, meaning you'll have to purchase the outer rod ends at extra costs.
Overall, the product would make a great replacement part for your Toyota vehicle.
This efficient rack and pinion system is designed for the Mustang brand, ranging from the manufacturing year between 79 - 93. So if your model falls in this category, you have no issue replacing the damaged rack and pinion.
This Flaming River system is well-designed and equally tested to tackle whatever road surface. Whether it’s raining, sunny or snowy, this system got you covered and won’t hamper your driving performance.
The product comes packaged with the right tools that you need to install it in your Mustang vehicle. However, the package lacks rubber bushings.
Although you can't fault the product's durability and reliability, it costs slightly higher than other rack and pinions in the market. For buyers looking for cheap rack and pinion replacements, this product may not go down well with their budget.
Overall, this is a good rack and pinion alternative if the price falls within your estimated budget.
![for 2002-2004 Nissan Alitma - [2004-2008 Maxima] - Complete Power Steering Rack & Pinion Assembly + All 4 Inner & Outer Tie Rod Ends](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61w0BXuzbkL._AC_SL1024_.jpg)
Replacing a broken-down rack and pinion require that you search for quality products that will stand the test of time. One of such products is this Detroit Axle rack and pinion.
Rack & Pinion Assembly + All 4 Inner & Outer Tie Rod Ends is durable and designed to last for a long time, regardless of how frequently you drive the car. If you own a Nissan Altima or a Maxima and replace the failing rack and pinion, this product will be an ideal choice of replacement.
The system comes with two seals - oil and lip seals. They help conserve the power steering fluid in the tank, making sure the system is lubricated. However, my team witnessed some leaks from one part of the seal when test-running the vehicle.
The installation process is straightforward, as the included tie rod ends ensure this product fits perfectly in your vehicle.
More importantly, this product comes with a lifelong warranty, meaning that you won’t be changing the system anytime soon. Should it get damaged during this period, you can contact Detroit Axle customer service, and they will be happy to solve your problem.
Despite the leak from one part of the seal, I can say that this product is worth the price. It's more affordable than most aftermarket racks and pinions out there while offering quality features.
Things to Consider When Buying Detroit Axle Rack and Pinion
When buying Detroit Axle suspensions like rack and pinion, there are certain things that you must look out for. Rack and pinion suspensions are designed with sensitive components that differ from manufacturer to manufacturer. You must examine adequately and evaluate your options before cashing in on your replacements.
Here are the things you should consider when buying Detroit Axle rack and pinion systems.
Compatibility
Rack and pinion suspensions aren’t universal. Different companies use sensitive components to design their products, which affect how they fit into a vehicle’s steering assembly.
Before you agree to buy a rack and pinion, ensure it's of the right fit. One way to check is to ask an expert or have them installed in your car to test if it's compatible or not.
Price
As earlier stated in this Detroit Axle rack and pinion review, rack and pinions differ from company to company, so as the price. You need to figure out how much you’ll be willing to spend before making an informed decision.
Although rack and pinion systems can be quite expensive, other high-quality ones offer great value at low prices. For instance, the rack and pinion systems from Detroit Axle are of great quality that will last for an extended period. The best part is that they are quite affordable.
Warranty
Another thing to consider when looking for rack and pinion systems replacements is the warranty. Rack and pinion systems don’t last forever, which is why you need to ensure you choose the one with the longest possible warranty.
Fortunately, all Detroit Axle rack and pinion systems here come with good warranties, so you are assured of using the products for long.
How Do You Adjust Rack and Pinion
Sometimes, a rack and pinion can be so tight that steering the wheels can become too challenging. Also, it might be too loose, which may affect the vehicle’s steering performance. All you need to do is to adjust the rack and pinion.
Most rack and pinion have a rack guide adjustment screw. When a rack and pinion begins to act up, you should first try to adjust the rack and pinion.
To adjust the screw;
- Loosen the locknut on the screw with a spanner.
- Turn the rack guide adjustment screw anti-clockwise to about 90 degrees or until it’s slightly down if you want to loosen the rack and pinion.
- Turn the screw clockwise if you want to tighten the rack and pinion.
- Tighten the locknut on the screw.
- Test the steering to see if it's properly adjusted to your preference. If it isn't, you may have to modify the screw again.
Who Makes the Best Rack and Pinion?
Detroit Axle, a company based in Michigan, USA, makes the best rack and pinion systems. Detroit Axle rack and pinions are highly durable, affordable, and have a few compatibility issues than other aftermarket rack and pinion systems.
Besides, Detroit Axle rack and pinion systems have lifetime warranties, further proving that product’s durability and longevity.
Rack and Pinion Installation Tips
Installing a rack and pinion is the same process for all vehicles. However, it can be more challenging to install in some vehicles than others due to the rack's position.
For instance, changing a rack in the rear-drive car if bolted in the crossmember's front is easy. But when it's bolted to the subframe in a front-driver, it can become hectic to change.
Here’s a simple method of how to install a rack and pinion.
- Ensure the front tires are set forward and then lock the steering.
- Remove the cables from the car battery.
- Jack up the car and remove the front tires.
- Disconnect the fluid lines and flush the steering fluid from the tank and remove the steering lower joint
- Unscrew the nuts joining the tie rod ends and the mounting brackets—disconnect tie rods from the knuckles.
- Remove the old rack and pinion.
- Put the new replacements into the position, add the mounting brackets, tighten the nuts to the appropriate torque.
- Connect the steering fluid pipes back and thread the pinions.
- Ensure you add and tighten all the nuts and mounting brackets in place.
- Top up the steering fluid and align the wheels.
Detroit Axle Parts, Any Good?
Detroit Axle parts quality is good. Their parts include CV axles, brake pads, rotors, shocks, chassis, wheel hubs, struts, ball joints, rack, pinions, etc. They are super-efficient, reliable, and adequate replacements for worn-out parts.
If you’re looking for replacement parts that will do the job at an affordable price, you will make no error with choosing Detroit Axle parts. They are manufactured with the best materials to ensure that they last long enough.
Also, they are easy to install and compatible with many models. They are designed to fit into most car brands, regardless of the year of manufacture.
How to Center a Rack and Pinion
One of the most general questions people ask is how to center a rack and pinion. Aligning the rack and pinion is crucial to getting the best steering performance.
Below is how to center a rack and pinion.
- Check the nuts on each tie rod ends. That is the left side and the right side.
- Loosen the nuts on those ends.
- Turn the nuts on each side in the opposite directions in the same number of turns. For instance, turn the nut on the right side clockwise in the same number of turns.
- Repeat the process on the left anti-clockwise in the equal turns.
- During the process of turning, the steering wheel will be moving. At this moment, you can center the rack and pinion.
Why I Chose Detroit Axle?
Detroit Axle is one of the famous aftermarket companies that manufacture excellent, high-quality, and reliable parts. The American company has been in the automobile parts manufacturing business for decades and understands what car owners go through to get the perfect replacement parts for their vehicles.
Detroit Axle rack and pinion systems provide excellent steering performance that betters what most aftermarket companies manufacture.
One of the reasons why their rack and pinion systems are superior is that they are appropriately designed before flooding the market. Also, the products are tested appropriately to maximize the user's safety. You don't need to be afraid of the suspension systems breaking down abruptly when on the road.
Detroit Axle rack and pinion systems are highly compatible with several vehicles and models, notably Chevrolet and GMC cars. They fit in perfectly in these vehicles, and the installation process is straightforward.
I chose the Detroit Axle because their products come with a lifetime warranty. This means the product will last you an extended time, helping you cut down costs of frequent replacements. Suppose you have an issue with the product during the warranty period, you can get in touch with them, and they'll fix your problem.
DETROIT AXLE RACK AND PINION REVIEW (FAQs)
How serious are a rack and pinion leak?
A rack and pinion leak isn’t as serious as it sounds. However, it’s worth explaining that a leaking rack and pinion can lead to a more severe complication if the driver doesn’t address the issue. It could jeopardize the driver’s safety.
What are the signs of a bad rack and pinion leak?
The signs of a bad rack and pinion leak include; clunking or grinding noise, loose steering and loose steering wheel, and wheel imbalance.
Other signs of a failing rack and pinion leak include a tight steering wheel and a burning oil smell.
How much is labor for a rack and pinion?
The labor cost for a rack and pinion is estimated to be between $300 and $400. The prices depend on the type of rack and pinion to be installed.
How long does it take to put in a rack and pinion?
It takes about four hours to put in a rack and pinion in a vehicle. However, it depends on the car’s model and the rack and pinion variant.
Do you need an alignment after replacing the rack and pinion?
Yes, you need an alignment after replacing a rack and pinion. It's necessary to align the tie rod ends by rethreading them to the same perfect angle for proper fitting. The rack and pinion could completely loosen if you don't align them.
Final Words & Recommendation
Rack and pinions are useful components that many car owners overlook. They are crucial to the vehicle’s rotation, as elaborated in this Detroit Axle rack and pinion review.
Based on the features and performance, the best Detroit Axle rack and pinion in this review is the Detroit Axle Complete Power Steering Rack & Pinion Assembly With No Magnasteer.
This assembly significantly improves the vehicle's steering power and is thoroughly tested to ensure it doesn’t fail or breakdown on the road.
Also, it comes with complete accessories and performs well in all road conditions.
It's super affordable and an incredible option for drivers looking for a quality rack and pinion replacement. Therefore, I rate this product 4.9/5.