Cardone 26-2022E Rack and Pinion Assembly

Electronic Power Steering Rack for LS and Thunderbird

Restore steering response with this remanufactured Cardone rack and pinion assembly, part number 26-2022E. It is built for select Ford Thunderbird and Lincoln LS applications with hydraulic power steering and Electronic Variable Orifice (EVO) control, with fitment covering 2003-2006 model years.

Cardone’s Rack and Pinion Assembly line focuses on OE-style replacement fitment and remanufactured steering components for direct service use. This unit is finished in black, uses an aluminum casting, and includes inner tie rods for the listed applications.

Key Features

• Remanufactured rack and pinion assembly for select Ford and Lincoln vehicles
• Electronic Variable Orifice (EVO) component included where applicable
• All rubber sealing components replaced during remanufacturing
• New spool valve seals and rack donut seals installed to reduce internal leakage
• Specialized lubricant applied for extended service life
• Factory test drive performed to verify operation and on-car communications
• Protective coating helps resist corrosion and rust
• Package contents: rack and pinion, sealing kit, and instruction sheet

Detailed Description

Cardone 26-2022E is a remanufactured electronic power steering rack and pinion assembly engineered for direct replacement in 2003-2006 Lincoln LS and 2003-2005 Ford Thunderbird applications. The unit is remanufactured to OE-style fit standards, uses an aluminum housing, and is supplied with tie rod ends included for the listed vehicles. The rack length measures 44.88 inches, with a 2.75 total turns lock to lock and an O-ring hose port type.

This part cross-references Ford 4W6Z3504AA and Lincoln 2W4Z3280AA for the same application. Use part number 26-2022E when matching the correct steering rack for a Ford Thunderbird or Lincoln LS with hydraulic power steering and EVO-equipped steering control.

What This Part Helps Correct

• Excessive steering play or loose steering feel
• Internal rack leakage or fluid bypass
• Hard steering during initial operation after startup
• Steering that does not return to center as expected
• Noise or whine caused by air in the power steering system after service

Installation Notes and Tips

Fits 2004-2006 Lincoln LS, N/A; supplied with Electronic Variable Orifice (EVO) component, includes inner tie rods, with hydraulic power. Fits 2004-2005 Ford Thunderbird, N/A; supplied with Electronic Variable Orifice (EVO) component, includes inner tie rods, with hydraulic power. Fits 2003 Ford Thunderbird, N/A; from 11/18/2002, supplied with Electronic Variable Orifice (EVO) component, includes inner tie rods, with hydraulic power. Fits 2003 Lincoln LS, N/A; from 11/18/2002, supplied with Electronic Variable Orifice (EVO) component, includes inner tie rods, with hydraulic power.

For warranty purposes, install an in-line filter, use the suggested OE fluid, and flush the steering system thoroughly. Bleed the system completely after installation to remove air. If the steering does not return to center, inspect front-end alignment and check the return line for restriction or kinks.

Quality Assurance

Each Cardone remanufactured steering rack undergoes a factory test drive that simulates demanding operating conditions and verifies on-car communications. Rubber sealing components are replaced, specialized lubricant is applied, and the unit is finished with protective coating to support durability in service.