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Cardone 26-2043 Rack and Pinion Assembly
Overview of Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly 26-2043
The Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly 26-2043 is designed for precise steering control in select Mazda vehicles. Engineered with durable aluminum casting, this remanufactured steering component ensures reliable performance for Mazda 3, Mazda 3 Sport, and Mazda 5 models.
- Remanufactured rack and pinion assembly with aluminum casting
- Compatible with Mazda 3, Mazda 3 Sport, and Mazda 5
- Includes rack and pinion, sealing kit, installation kit, and instruction sheet
- Features washer-type hose ports and tie rod ends included
- Mounting hole distance: 23.06 inches (585.80 mm)
- Input shaft diameter: 0.73 inches (18.47 mm), length: 1.63 inches (41.28 mm)
- Rack length: 50.50 inches (1282.70 mm)
- Pressure port thread size: M16 x 1.5; return port thread size: M18 x 1.5
- Total turns lock to lock: 2.94
About the Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly Product Line
The Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly product line focuses on remanufactured steering components that meet OEM specifications. This line provides a cost-effective solution for restoring steering performance while maintaining structural integrity and fitment accuracy. The assemblies come complete with necessary seals and installation hardware to facilitate proper replacement.
Detailed Product Description
This remanufactured rack and pinion assembly is constructed with a lightweight aluminum casting to reduce weight without compromising strength. The assembly includes tie rod ends and features washer-type hose ports for secure fluid connections. With a mounting hole distance of 23.06 inches, it is engineered to fit specific Mazda models precisely. The input shaft measures 0.73 inches in diameter and 1.63 inches in length, ensuring compatibility with the vehicle’s steering column. The rack length of 50.50 inches supports smooth steering response, while the total turns lock to lock of 2.94 provides controlled steering input.
Common Steering Issues Addressed
- Hard steering during initial driving (morning sickness symptom)
- Power steering pump whining after rack replacement
- Steering not returning to center after turns
- Air in power steering system causing noise
- Steering geometry issues affecting rack centering
Installation Notes and Tips
- Includes installation kit and instruction sheet for proper guidance
- Ensure all hydraulic connections use correct thread sizes (M16 x 1.5 pressure port, M18 x 1.5 return port)
- Bleed power steering system thoroughly to remove air and prevent pump noise
- Verify mounting hole alignment (23.06 inches) before installation
- Check input shaft dimensions for compatibility with steering column
Quality Assurance and Warranty
This Cardone remanufactured rack and pinion assembly undergoes rigorous testing to meet OEM standards. The product is backed by Cardone’s quality assurance processes to ensure durability and reliable steering performance. Warranty details are provided by Cardone and typically cover defects in materials and workmanship.
| Brand | Cardone |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 26-2043 |
| Position | Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| Casting Material | Aluminum |
| Distance Between Mounting Holes (in) | 23.06 |
| Distance Between Mounting Holes (mm) | 585.80 |
| E-Waste | No |
| Hose Port Type | Washer |
| Input Shaft Diameter (in) | 0.73 |
| Input Shaft Diameter (mm) | 18.47 |
| Input Shaft Length (in) | 1.63 |
| Input Shaft Length (mm) | 41.28 |
| Number of Mounting Holes | 2 |
| Package Contents | Rack and Pinion, Sealing Kit, Installation Kit, Instruction Sheet |
| Pressure Port Thread Size | M16 x 1.5 |
| Product Condition | Remanufactured |
| Rack Length (in) | 50.50 |
| Rack Length (mm) | 1282.70 |
| Return Port Thread Size | M18 x 1.5 |
| Steering Rack Color | Black |
| Thread Length (in) | 2.80 |
| Thread Length (mm) | 71.12 |
| Tie Rod Ends Included | Yes |
| Total Turns Lock to Lock | 2.94 |
This part fits 10 vehicles. Search below:
| Year | Make | Model | Position | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 | Mazda | 5 | 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 |
| 2009 | Mazda | 3 | 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 |
| 2009 | Mazda | 3 Sport | 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 |
| 2009 | Mazda | 5 | 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 |
| 2008 | Mazda | 3 | 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 |
| 2008 | Mazda | 5 | 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 |
| 2007 | Mazda | 3 | 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 |
| 2007 | Mazda | 5 | 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 |
| 2006 | Mazda | 3 | 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 |
| 2006 | Mazda | 5 | 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.