What is a Rack and Pinion Bellows?
A rack and pinion bellows kit is used to replace the bellows, or dust boots, on the rack and pinion steering gear assembly. The rack and pinion bellows seal the power steering system to prevent power steering fluid leaks and protect the moving parts of the steering rack from debris and moisture. The steering system consists of a rack gear and pinion gear which converts the rotational motion of the steering into linear motion to move the wheels left or right. The bellows act as protective covers for the tie rod ends and the rack itself. The inner tie rods that are sealed by the bellows are typically greased, and the bellows also prevent grease contamination or degradation from debris or moisture. Over time, the rack and pinion bellows can crack, dry out, shrink, or become loose, allowing debris into the tie rod joint and eventually leading to premature damage or wear. If your vehicle shows any signs of steering problems, tightness, or excessive looseness in the steering, or noise when turning the wheels, it could be time to replace the rack and pinion bellows. A bad rack and pinion unit or damage to the tie rods or other steering system components can also make your steering wheel harder to turn and should be addressed to not only avoid leaks, but to ensure your continued safety while driving. If you need to repair your steering system, O'Reilly Auto Parts carries rack and pinion bellows kits that include all the necessary seals and repair components to seal the joints of the steering rack. O'Reilly Auto Parts offers a variety of bellows kits, tie rod ends, and complete rack and pinion units for a complete repair.
