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Cardone 22-217 Rack and Pinion Assembly
Reliable Rack and Pinion Assembly for Ford Explorer and Mercury Mountaineer
The Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly 22-217 is designed to restore precise steering control for your Ford Explorer or Mercury Mountaineer. This remanufactured steering component offers durable aluminum construction and includes essential mounting hardware for a complete replacement.
- Remanufactured rack and pinion assembly with aluminum casting
- Compatible with Ford Explorer and Mercury Mountaineer models
- Includes mounting bushings, sealing kit, and tie rod ends
- Two mounting holes spaced 11.25 inches (285.75 mm) apart
- Teflon hose port type with M16 x 1.5 pressure and return port threads
- Input shaft diameter of 0.73 inches (18.42 mm) and length of 1.50 inches (38.10 mm)
- Rack length of 44.75 inches (1136.65 mm) and total turns lock to lock of 3.19
- Black steering rack color with included installation instructions
About the Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly Product Line
The Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly product line focuses on remanufactured steering components engineered to meet OEM specifications. This line provides a cost-effective solution for restoring steering performance while maintaining durability and reliability. The assemblies come complete with mounting bushings, sealing kits, and tie rod ends to facilitate a straightforward installation process.
Detailed Product Description
This Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly 22-217 features a robust aluminum casting that balances strength and weight reduction. The assembly includes two mounting holes spaced precisely at 11.25 inches (285.75 mm) to ensure proper fitment on compatible vehicles. The input shaft measures 0.73 inches in diameter and 1.50 inches in length, designed to interface seamlessly with the steering column. The rack length of 44.75 inches (1136.65 mm) supports smooth steering response, with a total of 3.19 turns lock to lock for controlled maneuverability. The Teflon hose ports and M16 x 1.5 threaded pressure and return ports provide secure hydraulic connections for power steering systems.
Common Steering Issues Addressed by This Rack and Pinion Assembly
- Hard steering during initial driving periods, often referred to as "morning sickness"
- Power steering pump whining caused by air in the system after rack replacement
- Steering not returning to center after turns due to worn or faulty rack components
- Loose or imprecise steering feel resulting from damaged tie rod ends
- Hydraulic leaks or pressure loss in the steering gear assembly
Installation Notes and Tips
Installation of the Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly 22-217 should be performed by a qualified technician familiar with Ford Explorer and Mercury Mountaineer steering systems. Ensure all hydraulic connections use the specified M16 x 1.5 thread size and Teflon hose ports for leak-free sealing. Replace mounting bushings and sealing components included in the package to maintain proper alignment and prevent fluid leaks. After installation, bleed the power steering system thoroughly to remove air and prevent pump noise or steering stiffness.
Quality Assurance and Warranty Information
This remanufactured rack and pinion assembly undergoes rigorous testing to meet or exceed OEM standards for fit, form, and function. Cardone provides a limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship, ensuring reliable performance for your Ford Explorer or Mercury Mountaineer. Refer to the warranty documentation for specific terms and coverage details.
| Brand | Cardone |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 22-217 |
| Position | Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| Casting Material | Aluminum |
| Distance Between Mounting Holes (in) | 11.25 |
| Distance Between Mounting Holes (mm) | 285.75 |
| E-Waste | No |
| Hose Port Type | Teflon |
| Input Shaft Diameter (in) | 0.73 |
| Input Shaft Diameter (mm) | 18.42 |
| Input Shaft Length (in) | 1.50 |
| Input Shaft Length (mm) | 38.10 |
| Number of Mounting Holes | 2 |
| Package Contents | Rack and Pinion, Mounting Bushings Assembly, Sealing Kit, Instruction Sheet |
| Pressure Port Thread Size | M16 x 1.5 |
| Product Condition | Remanufactured |
| Rack Length (in) | 44.75 |
| Rack Length (mm) | 1136.65 |
| Return Port Thread Size | M16 x 1.5 |
| Steering Rack Color | Black |
| Thread Length (in) | 2.50 |
| Thread Length (mm) | 63.50 |
| Tie Rod Ends Included | Yes |
| Total Turns Lock to Lock | 3.19 |
This part fits 4 vehicles. Search below:
| Year | Make | Model | Position | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1997 | Ford | Explorer | 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 | Mountaineer | 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 | Explorer | 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 | Explorer | 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.