Cardone 26-2022 Rack and Pinion Assembly

Cardone 26-2022 Rack and Pinion Assembly

Cardone 26-2022 is a remanufactured electronic power steering rack and pinion assembly built for direct replacement on select Ford Thunderbird and Lincoln LS applications. It combines OE-style fitment with new sealing components, specialized lubricant, and corrosion-resistant finishing for dependable steering performance.

Key Features

• Remanufactured Original Equipment-style rack and pinion assembly for precise vehicle fit
• New spool valve seals and rack donut seals help reduce internal leakage
• Specialized lubricant applied for extended service life
• Factory test drive verifies operation under demanding conditions and checks on-car communications
• Protective coating helps resist rust and corrosion
• Aluminum casting with black finish
• Includes inner tie rods and tie rod ends

Product Line Details

Cardone’s Rack and Pinion Assembly line focuses on remanufactured steering gear replacements that restore factory-style steering response. This part number, 26-2022, is built with updated sealing components and tested to confirm proper operation before it leaves the remanufacturing process.

Detailed Description

Use Cardone 26-2022 when replacing a worn steering rack on 2003-2006 Lincoln LS and 2003-2005 Ford Thunderbird models. The assembly is remanufactured from OE cores and finished to support accurate steering feel, stable hydraulic performance, and reliable communication where equipped. This part cross-references Ford and Lincoln OE numbers for the same application. Cardone 26-2022 is a practical choice for drivers searching for a remanufactured rack and pinion assembly for Ford Thunderbird steering repair or a Lincoln LS rack replacement.

Common Issues This Part Can Address

• Steering play or looseness from a worn rack and pinion
• Internal fluid leakage from aging seals
• Hard steering after startup caused by rack wear or bypass
• Steering that does not return smoothly after a turn
• Noise or inconsistent assist related to steering gear wear

Installation Notes and Tips

Compatible With 2004-2006 Lincoln LS, N/A; 2004-2005 Ford Thunderbird, N/A; 2003 Ford Thunderbird, N/A; and 2003 Lincoln LS, N/A. Notes for these applications indicate the unit is supplied without EVO component and includes inner tie rods. An in-line filter is available, and the system should be flushed with hydraulic power fluid. For warranty purposes, use OE fluid and install a filter. If steering is hard after startup, or if the vehicle does not return to center, inspect alignment, return-line restriction, and system bleeding before replacing additional components.

Quality Assurance

Each unit is remanufactured to rigorous quality and performance standards, then factory test driven to verify operation under extreme conditions and on-car communications. Rubber sealing components are replaced, and a specialized lubricant is applied to support longevity. The remanufacturing process also reduces energy and raw material use compared with producing a new part.