OE Quality
60-Day Returns

Cardone 22-215 Rack and Pinion Assembly
Overview of Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly 22-215
The Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly 22-215 is a remanufactured steering component designed for precise control and reliable performance. Engineered for select Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury models, this assembly ensures smooth steering response and durability.
- Remanufactured rack and pinion assembly with mounting bushings and sealing kit included
- Constructed with lightweight aluminum casting material for strength and corrosion resistance
- Compatible with Ford Cougar, Lincoln Mark VIII, and Mercury Thunderbird
- Features Teflon hose ports and includes tie rod ends for complete installation
- Input shaft diameter of 0.73 inches (18.42 mm) and length of 2.25 inches (57.15 mm)
- Rack length measures 48.50 inches (1231.90 mm) with 2.75 total turns lock to lock
- Pressure port thread size 9/16 x 18 and return port thread size 5/8-18
About the Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly Product Line
The Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly product line focuses on remanufactured steering gear components that meet or exceed OEM specifications. This line provides a cost-effective solution for restoring steering performance in vehicles such as the Ford Cougar, Lincoln Mark VIII, and Mercury Thunderbird. Each assembly is carefully rebuilt and tested to ensure proper fitment and function, making it a reliable replacement part within the Cardone brand portfolio.
Detailed Product Description
This remanufactured rack and pinion assembly (part number 22-215) is designed to restore steering precision and responsiveness in compatible vehicles. The aluminum casting material offers a balance of durability and weight savings, while the included mounting bushings and sealing kit facilitate a secure and leak-free installation. The assembly’s input shaft and rack dimensions are engineered to match factory specifications, ensuring proper steering geometry and handling characteristics. The black finish provides corrosion resistance and a clean appearance under the hood.
Common Steering Issues Addressed
- Hard steering during initial minutes of driving, often referred to as "morning sickness"
- Steering not returning to center after turns due to worn or faulty rack components
- Power steering pump whining caused by air in the system or related to rack replacement
- Loose or imprecise steering feel resulting from worn tie rod ends or bushings
- Leaks or loss of hydraulic pressure in the steering system
Installation Notes and Tips
- Ensure all mounting holes align precisely; this assembly features two mounting holes spaced 15.50 inches (393.70 mm) apart
- Use the included sealing kit to prevent fluid leaks and maintain system integrity
- Bleed the power steering system thoroughly after installation to remove air and prevent pump noise
- Verify input shaft dimensions (0.73 inch diameter, 2.25 inch length) for compatibility with your vehicle’s steering column
- Check tie rod ends for proper torque and alignment to avoid premature wear
Quality Assurance and Warranty
Cardone remanufactured rack and pinion assemblies undergo rigorous testing to meet OEM standards for fit, form, and function. This part is built to provide reliable steering performance and durability. Warranty coverage details vary by distributor but typically include protection against defects in materials and workmanship.
| Brand | Cardone |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 22-215 |
| Position | Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| Casting Material | Aluminum |
| Distance Between Mounting Holes (in) | 15.50 |
| Distance Between Mounting Holes (mm) | 393.70 |
| E-Waste | No |
| Hose Port Type | Teflon |
| Input Shaft Diameter (in) | 0.73 |
| Input Shaft Diameter (mm) | 18.42 |
| Input Shaft Length (in) | 2.25 |
| Input Shaft Length (mm) | 57.15 |
| Number of Mounting Holes | 2 |
| Package Contents | Rack and Pinion, Mounting Bushings Assembly, Sealing Kit, Instruction Sheet |
| Pressure Port Thread Size | 9/16 x 18 |
| Product Condition | Remanufactured |
| Rack Length (in) | 48.50 |
| Rack Length (mm) | 1231.90 |
| Return Port Thread Size | 5/8"- 18 |
| Steering Rack Color | Black |
| Thread Length (in) | 3.63 |
| Thread Length (mm) | 92.08 |
| Tie Rod Ends Included | Yes |
| Total Turns Lock to Lock | 2.75 |
This part fits 28 vehicles. Search below:
| Year | Make | Model | Position | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1997 | Ford | Thunderbird | N/A | Install in-line filter and use OE fluid; flush hydraulic power system when installing Rack and Pinion Assembly with inner tie rods for warranty validation.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 1997 | Mercury | Cougar | N/A | Install in-line filter and use OE fluid; flush hydraulic power system when installing Rack and Pinion Assembly with inner tie rods for warranty validation.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 1996 | Ford | Thunderbird | N/A | Install in-line filter and use OE fluid; flush hydraulic power system when installing Rack and Pinion Assembly with inner tie rods for warranty validation.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 1996 | Lincoln | Mark VIII | N/A | Install in-line filter and use OE fluid; flush hydraulic power system when installing Rack and Pinion Assembly with inner tie rods for warranty validation.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 1996 | Mercury | Cougar | N/A | Install in-line filter and use OE fluid; flush hydraulic power system when installing Rack and Pinion Assembly with inner tie rods for warranty validation.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 1995 | Ford | Cougar | N/A | Install in-line filter and use OE fluid; flush hydraulic power system when installing Rack and Pinion Assembly with inner tie rods for warranty validation.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 1995 | Ford | Thunderbird | N/A | Install in-line filter and use OE fluid; flush hydraulic power system when installing Rack and Pinion Assembly with inner tie rods for warranty validation.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 1995 | Lincoln | Mark VIII | N/A | Install in-line filter and use OE fluid; flush hydraulic power system when installing Rack and Pinion Assembly with inner tie rods for warranty validation.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 1995 | Mercury | Cougar | N/A | Install in-line filter and use OE fluid; flush hydraulic power system when installing Rack and Pinion Assembly with inner tie rods for warranty validation.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 1994 | Ford | Cougar | N/A | Install in-line filter and use OE fluid; flush hydraulic power system when installing Rack and Pinion Assembly with inner tie rods for warranty validation.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 1994 | Ford | Thunderbird | N/A | Install in-line filter and use OE fluid; flush hydraulic power system when installing Rack and Pinion Assembly with inner tie rods for warranty validation.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 1994 | Lincoln | Mark VIII | N/A | Install in-line filter and use OE fluid; flush hydraulic power system when installing Rack and Pinion Assembly with inner tie rods for warranty validation.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 1994 | Mercury | Cougar | N/A | Install in-line filter and use OE fluid; flush hydraulic power system when installing Rack and Pinion Assembly with inner tie rods for warranty validation.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 1993 | Ford | Cougar | N/A | Install in-line filter and use OE fluid; flush hydraulic power system when installing Rack and Pinion Assembly with inner tie rods for warranty validation.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 1993 | Ford | Thunderbird | N/A | Install in-line filter and use OE fluid; flush hydraulic power system when installing Rack and Pinion Assembly with inner tie rods for warranty validation.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 1993 | Lincoln | Mark VIII | N/A | Install in-line filter and use OE fluid; flush hydraulic power system when installing Rack and Pinion Assembly with inner tie rods for warranty validation.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 1993 | Mercury | Cougar | N/A | Install in-line filter and use OE fluid; flush hydraulic power system when installing Rack and Pinion Assembly with inner tie rods for warranty validation.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 1992 | Ford | Cougar | N/A | Install in-line filter and use OE fluid; flush hydraulic power system when installing Rack and Pinion Assembly with inner tie rods for warranty validation.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 1992 | Ford | Thunderbird | N/A | Install in-line filter and use OE fluid; flush hydraulic power system when installing Rack and Pinion Assembly with inner tie rods for warranty validation.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 1992 | Mercury | Cougar | N/A | Install in-line filter and use OE fluid; flush hydraulic power system when installing Rack and Pinion Assembly with inner tie rods for warranty validation.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 1991 | Ford | Cougar | N/A | Install in-line filter and use OE fluid; flush hydraulic power system when installing Rack and Pinion Assembly with inner tie rods for warranty validation.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 1991 | Ford | Thunderbird | N/A | Install in-line filter and use OE fluid; flush hydraulic power system when installing Rack and Pinion Assembly with inner tie rods for warranty validation.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 1991 | Mercury | Cougar | N/A | Install in-line filter and use OE fluid; flush hydraulic power system when installing Rack and Pinion Assembly with inner tie rods for warranty validation.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 1990 | Ford | Cougar | N/A | Install in-line filter and use OE fluid; flush hydraulic power system when installing Rack and Pinion Assembly with inner tie rods for warranty validation.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 1990 | Ford | Thunderbird | N/A | Install in-line filter and use OE fluid; flush hydraulic power system when installing Rack and Pinion Assembly with inner tie rods for warranty validation.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 1990 | Mercury | Cougar | N/A | Install in-line filter and use OE fluid; flush hydraulic power system when installing Rack and Pinion Assembly with inner tie rods for warranty validation.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 1989 | Ford | Thunderbird | N/A | Install in-line filter and use OE fluid; flush hydraulic power system when installing Rack and Pinion Assembly with inner tie rods for warranty validation.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 1989 | Mercury | Cougar | N/A | Install in-line filter and use OE fluid; flush hydraulic power system when installing Rack and Pinion Assembly with inner tie rods for warranty validation.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
* Always verify fitment with your vehicle's VIN if unsure. Submodel & trim restrictions may apply.
This part directly replaces or is cross-referenced with the following part numbers:
Cross-reference numbers are provided for identification purposes only. Always confirm fitment before ordering.