Replace steeringrack gaiter?

[Kroegarn]

Anyone replaced the steering rack gaiter? Mine has cracked into two pieces and at the first glance it looks like a major ordeal? Can it be replaced without removing the steering rack... which almost looks like it would require an engine removal

[Tonks4x4]

I have replaced a steering rack in a LHD RS2 without removing the engine.

I would not choose to do it again but it is possible...

[Pirvu Eugen]

remove the steering arms bracket from the rack....remove the old gaiter....take care at the plastic bit fixed at the front....install the new one...reinstall the steering arms bracket....finish!
Goodluck!

[Error404]

/\ yes it is not a pleasant job but not that difficult. The hardest part is removing and installing the retaining clip, I remember stabbing myself in the hands a few times with various tools.

[A80Avant]

I have done that as well. Most painful bit is the back ache after all the front bending to reach unreachable areas. But it can be done...

[220bhp]

I have done this on my s6 not an easy job.there is a very good thread on hear of how to do it,do a search.
Good luck

[Vauhtiveikko]

I have done this twice and it looks harder that it is. I used a small puller to ease off the plastic retaining clip. Turn the wheels first to the right then undo the bolts. Then turn the steering left to free the shaft from the steering arms.

[pixsaudisex2]

And remember the bolts are threaded all the way through the arm...

[Kroegarn]

Thanks for all the hints... looks like it could be done without a complete mental meltdown then

[bertman]

Done it on mine.If the end of the steering ram (where it bolts onto the the steering arm) is rusted it helps a great deal if you can give it a rub done with some wet and dry to remove any build up of rust and cr@p.This really helps remove the retaining clip otherwise it's a pita to get off.

[s2driveruk]

one of the first things i did to my car in mid winter with zero visibility on a 3b.

a total SH*TE of a job and in all honesty i did a write up somewhere on the old yahoo forum pages (gawd that feels like decades ago )

I'll see if i can find it