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Cardone 26-2045 Rack and Pinion Assembly
Overview of Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly 26-2045
The Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly 26-2045 is a remanufactured steering component designed for precise control and reliable performance. Engineered for select Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury models, this assembly restores steering responsiveness and stability.
- Remanufactured rack and pinion assembly with aluminum casting
- Compatible with Ford Fusion, Lincoln Milan, and Mercury Zephyr
- Includes tie rod ends and instruction sheet for installation
- Black steering rack with 3 mounting holes spaced 16.13 inches apart
- Input shaft diameter of 0.73 inches and length of 2.06 inches
- Pressure port thread size M14 x 1.5 and return port thread size M16 x 1.5
- Total steering turns lock to lock: 2.63
Detailed Product Description
This Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly 26-2045 features a durable aluminum casting that balances strength and weight for improved steering feel. The rack length measures 44.50 inches, providing the correct fitment for the specified vehicle models. The assembly includes tie rod ends, ensuring a complete steering solution. The input shaft diameter of 0.73 inches and length of 2.06 inches are designed to match factory specifications, while the seat-type hose ports and precise thread sizes support proper hydraulic connections. The black finish offers corrosion resistance and a professional appearance.
The Rack and Pinion Assembly product line from Cardone focuses on remanufactured steering components that meet or exceed OEM standards. This line is engineered to restore original steering performance and durability, making it a practical replacement option for worn or damaged steering racks in compatible vehicles.
Compatible Vehicles and Common Applications
This rack and pinion assembly is compatible with the following vehicles:
- Ford Fusion
- Lincoln Milan
- Mercury Zephyr
It is designed to address common steering issues such as:
- Hard steering during initial driving (often called "morning sickness")
- Steering not returning to center after turns
- Power steering pump whining caused by air in the system
- Loose or unresponsive steering feel
- Worn or damaged rack and pinion components
Installation Notes and Tips
Installation of the Cardone 26-2045 rack and pinion assembly should be performed by a qualified technician. Key considerations include:
- Verify mounting hole spacing of 16.13 inches to ensure proper fit
- Check input shaft dimensions (0.73 inch diameter, 2.06 inch length) for compatibility
- Bleed the power steering system thoroughly to remove air and prevent pump noise
- Inspect tie rod ends included in the package for proper installation
- Follow the included instruction sheet for torque specifications and alignment procedures
Quality Assurance and Warranty
Cardone remanufactured rack and pinion assemblies undergo rigorous testing to meet OEM performance standards. Each unit is inspected for leaks, wear, and functionality before shipment. While specific warranty details are not provided here, Cardone products typically include a limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Consult the product documentation or Cardone directly for exact warranty terms.
| Brand | Cardone |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 26-2045 |
| Position | Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| Casting Material | Aluminum |
| Distance Between Mounting Holes (in) | 16.13 |
| Distance Between Mounting Holes (mm) | 409.58 |
| E-Waste | No |
| Hose Port Type | Seat |
| Input Shaft Diameter (in) | 0.73 |
| Input Shaft Diameter (mm) | 18.64 |
| Input Shaft Length (in) | 2.06 |
| Input Shaft Length (mm) | 52.40 |
| Number of Mounting Holes | 3 |
| Package Contents | Rack and Pinion, Instruction Sheet |
| Pressure Port Thread Size | M14 x 1.5 |
| Product Condition | Remanufactured |
| Rack Length (in) | 44.50 |
| Rack Length (mm) | 1130.30 |
| Return Port Thread Size | M16 x 1.5 |
| Steering Rack Color | Black |
| Thread Length (in) | 2.05 |
| Thread Length (mm) | 52.10 |
| Tie Rod Ends Included | Yes |
| Total Turns Lock to Lock | 2.63 |
This part fits 9 vehicles. Search below:
| Year | Make | Model | Position | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2009 | Ford | Fusion | N/A | with 16" Tires; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; For warranty purposes it is recommended to always install a filter and to use suggested OE Fluid and flush the system; with Hydraulic Power; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 2009 | Mercury | Milan | N/A | with 16" Tires; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; For warranty purposes it is recommended to always install a filter and to use suggested OE Fluid and flush the system; with Hydraulic Power; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 2008 | Ford | Fusion | N/A | with 16" Tires; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; For warranty purposes it is recommended to always install a filter and to use suggested OE Fluid and flush the system; with Hydraulic Power; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 2008 | Mercury | Milan | N/A | with 16" Tires; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; For warranty purposes it is recommended to always install a filter and to use suggested OE Fluid and flush the system; with Hydraulic Power; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 2007 | Ford | Fusion | N/A | with 16" Tires; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; For warranty purposes it is recommended to always install a filter and to use suggested OE Fluid and flush the system; with Hydraulic Power; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 2007 | Mercury | Milan | N/A | with 16" Tires; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; For warranty purposes it is recommended to always install a filter and to use suggested OE Fluid and flush the system; with Hydraulic Power; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 2006 | Ford | Fusion | N/A | with 16" Tires; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; For warranty purposes it is recommended to always install a filter and to use suggested OE Fluid and flush the system; with Hydraulic Power; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 2006 | Lincoln | Zephyr | N/A | with 16" Tires; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; For warranty purposes it is recommended to always install a filter and to use suggested OE Fluid and flush the system; with Hydraulic Power; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 2006 | Mercury | Milan | N/A | with 16" Tires; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; For warranty purposes it is recommended to always install a filter and to use suggested OE Fluid and flush the system; with Hydraulic Power; 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.