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Cardone 26-2081 Rack and Pinion Assembly
Reliable Rack and Pinion Assembly for Mazda 5 Steering
The Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly 26-2081 is designed to restore precise steering control for your Mazda 5. This remanufactured steering gear component ensures consistent performance and durability, helping maintain safe and responsive handling.
- Remanufactured rack and pinion assembly with aluminum casting
- Compatible with Mazda 5 models requiring part number 26-2081
- Includes tie rod ends for a complete steering solution
- Black steering rack with O-ring hose port type for secure connections
- Mounting hole distance of 23 inches (584.20 mm) for exact fitment
- Input shaft diameter of 0.729 inches (18.52 mm) and length of 4.26 inches (108.23 mm)
- Pressure port thread size M16 x 1.5 and return port thread size M14 x 1.5
- Total turns lock to lock: 2.93 for responsive steering feedback
About the Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly Product Line
The Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly line focuses on remanufactured steering components engineered to meet OEM specifications. This product line emphasizes durability and precision, using quality materials such as aluminum casting to reduce weight while maintaining strength. The assemblies come with necessary components like tie rod ends and feature standardized port thread sizes for compatibility with power steering systems.
Detailed Product Description
This Cardone rack and pinion assembly (part number 26-2081) is remanufactured to provide reliable steering performance for Mazda 5 vehicles. The aluminum casting material offers a balance of strength and corrosion resistance. With a rack length of 50.625 inches (1285.87 mm) and two mounting holes spaced 23 inches apart, this assembly fits securely in the steering system. The input shaft measures 0.729 inches in diameter and 4.26 inches in length, ensuring proper engagement with the steering column. The included tie rod ends simplify installation and help restore proper steering geometry. Hose ports use O-ring seals to prevent leaks, and the pressure and return ports have metric thread sizes (M16 x 1.5 and M14 x 1.5) compatible with standard power steering lines.
Common Steering Issues Addressed
- Hard steering during initial driving periods, often called "morning sickness"
- Power steering pump whining caused by air in the system
- Steering not returning to center after turns due to worn rack components
- Loose or imprecise steering feel from worn or damaged rack and pinion
- Steering system leaks or failure from damaged hose ports or seals
Installation Notes and Tips
Ensure the mounting holes align precisely with the vehicle’s frame using the 23-inch spacing as a guide. Verify the input shaft diameter and length match the steering column specifications on your Mazda 5. Use proper torque settings on pressure and return port fittings (M16 x 1.5 and M14 x 1.5) to avoid leaks. Bleed the power steering system thoroughly after installation to remove air and prevent pump noise. Check steering geometry and alignment after installation to ensure proper handling.
Quality Assurance and Warranty
This Cardone remanufactured rack and pinion assembly undergoes rigorous testing to meet OEM standards for fit, form, and function. The use of aluminum casting enhances durability and corrosion resistance. The product includes tie rod ends and an instruction sheet to assist with installation. While specific warranty details are not provided, Cardone products typically come with a limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship.
| Brand | Cardone |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 26-2081 |
| Position | Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| Casting Material | Aluminum |
| Distance Between Mounting Holes (in) | 23.00 |
| Distance Between Mounting Holes (mm) | 584.20 |
| E-Waste | No |
| FAQs | For the first few minutes of driving my car, the steering is hard |
| FAQs | I replaced the rack and now the power steering pump is whining. w |
| FAQs | Steering not returning to center coming out of a turn. what could |
| FAQs | The most likely cause of power steering pump whine is air in the |
| FAQs | The rack and pinion does not return to center by itself. the geom |
| FAQs | This symptom is classified as "morning sickness". this condition |
| Hose Port Type | O-ring |
| Input Shaft Diameter (in) | 0.729 |
| Input Shaft Diameter (mm) | 18.52 |
| Input Shaft Length (in) | 4.26 |
| Input Shaft Length (mm) | 108.23 |
| Number of Mounting Holes | 2 |
| Package Contents | Rack and pinion, instruction sheet |
| Pressure Port Thread Size | M16 x 1.5 |
| Product Condition | Remanufactured |
| Rack Length (in) | 50.625 |
| Rack Length (mm) | 1285.87 |
| Return Port Thread Size | M14 x 1.5 |
| Steering Rack Color | Black |
| Thread Length (in) | 2.605 |
| Thread Length (mm) | 66.17 |
| Tie Rod Ends Included | Yes |
| Total Turns Lock to Lock | 2.93 |
This part fits 4 vehicles. Search below:
| Year | Make | Model | Position | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | Mazda | 5 | N/A | 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 |
| 2014 | Mazda | 5 | N/A | 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 |
| 2013 | Mazda | 5 | N/A | 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 |
| 2012 | Mazda | 5 | N/A | 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.