Clunking sound while driving after Rack and Pinion replacement?

Tiny
HARTMAN1971
  • MEMBER
  • 2006 TOYOTA SIENNA
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 150,000 MILES
I replaced the rack and pinion as well as tie rod ends with kit from Amazon. Had alignment done. While driving straight on regular road I'm hearing a clunking sound and can't pinpoint exact spot. I had mechanic check sound before alignment, and he thinks it's coming from where steering column connects to rack and pinion, but what else could it be? It also clunks with vehicle on and in park while turning steering wheel back and forth. Also, at the time I replaced Rack and Pinion I also replaced sway bars and outer tie rods.
Thursday, September 1st, 2022 AT 11:36 AM

3 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Hi,

Are you certain the rack and pinion is properly tightened? Also, have you checked the steering shaft where it attaches? See pic

Let me know if you have to be turning the steering for the noise to be heard or if you hear it when hitting bumps.

Let me know.

Joe

See pic below.
Image (Click to make bigger)
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Thursday, September 1st, 2022 AT 8:05 PM
Tiny
HARTMAN1971
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Hi Joe,

The Steering shaft was put back just like it was in the old rack unless the new rack wasn't correct.
As for the Clunking, you don't need to be turning. In fact, it clunks more just driving in a straight line down a good, paved road. It does clunk because of turning but does clunk during turns as well. The mechanic says he thinks it is coming from where the shaft connects to rack also. I just don't know why but he is going to lift it up and I guess pull back boot to look inside rack to see what it is.
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Thursday, September 1st, 2022 AT 8:51 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Hi,

That is very possible. He is suggesting that the pic I attached above is where the problem is coming from. Think about this. When driving straight, there is little to no pressure on the rack. If it was loose, that is when you would hear it the most.

Regardless, if you can, let me know what he finds. I'm interested in knowing.

Take care,

Joe
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Friday, September 2nd, 2022 AT 8:12 PM

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