Cardone 22-203F Rack and Pinion Assembly

Remanufactured Electronic Power Steering Rack

CARDONE 22-203F is a remanufactured rack and pinion assembly built for hydraulic power steering applications on select Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles. It is rebuilt with new sealing components, specialized lubricant, and factory-tested to verify steering performance and on-car communication.

This rack and pinion assembly is a direct-fit replacement for vehicles such as the Ford Mustang, Lincoln Mark VII, and Mercury Cougar when equipped with the listed steering configuration. The CARDONE 22-203F is finished for corrosion resistance and includes inner tie rods where applicable to support a complete steering repair.

Key Features

• Remanufactured Original Equipment-style rack and pinion assembly
• Aluminum casting with black protective finish
• 100% replacement of rubber sealing components
• New spool valve seals and rack donut seals installed where applicable
• Specialized lubricant applied for extended service life
• Factory test drive performed under simulated extreme operating conditions
• Includes tie rod ends and mounting bushings as listed in package contents
• Rack length: 45.25 in; mounting hole spacing: 15.50 in
• Input shaft diameter: 0.73 in; pressure port thread size: 9/16 x 18
• Return port thread size: 5/8 in-18; total turns lock to lock: 3

Product Details

Built for steering systems that use Ford gear and hydraulic power, this CARDONE rack and pinion assembly is engineered to restore steering response and fluid control in older rear-wheel-drive platforms. The remanufacturing process replaces wear items, applies a protective coating, and uses a polished micro-finish sleeve design where applicable to improve durability. This part number, 22-203F, is a practical replacement choice for Ford Mustang, Lincoln Mark VII, and Mercury Cougar applications that match the listed fitment and configuration notes.

This part cross-references Ford E5SZ3L547A and Lincoln F6SZ3280BA for the same application.

Common Steering Issues It Can Address

• Hard steering during the first few minutes of driving
• Internal fluid bypass caused by worn spool valve seals
• Steering that does not return to center after a turn
• Power steering pump whine caused by air in the system after service
• Leakage from worn rack seals or sealing surfaces

Installation Notes

Fits 1985-1993 Ford Mustang, N/A; without Performance Suspension; with Ford Gear; with 1 Piece Mounting Bushing; Includes Inner Tie Rods; with Hydraulic Power. Fits 1984-1992 Lincoln Mark VII, N/A; without Performance Suspension; with Ford Gear; with 1 Piece Mounting Bushing; Includes Inner Tie Rods; with Hydraulic Power. Fits 1985-1988 Ford Cougar, N/A; without Performance Suspension; with Ford Gear; with 1 Piece Mounting Bushing; Includes Inner Tie Rods; with Hydraulic Power. Fits 1984-1988 Ford Thunderbird, N/A; without Performance Suspension; with Ford Gear; with 1 Piece Mounting Bushing; Includes Inner Tie Rods; with Hydraulic Power.

Before installation, inspect the front-end alignment, flush the steering system, and bleed all air from the hydraulic circuit. CARDONE recommends using the suggested OE fluid and installing an in-line filter for warranty purposes where noted in the fitment data. If the return line is restricted or kinked, correct that condition before putting the vehicle back into service.

Quality Assurance

CARDONE remanufactures this rack and pinion assembly to rigorous quality and performance standards and verifies operation through factory testing. The process replaces rubber sealing components, uses new seals where applicable, and applies a corrosion-resistant finish to support long-term reliability. Remanufacturing also reduces energy and raw material use compared with producing a new part.