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Cardone 26-2918 Rack and Pinion Assembly
Overview of Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly 26-2918
The Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly 26-2918 is designed specifically for Audi TT and TT Quattro models. This remanufactured steering component ensures reliable performance by combining steel and aluminum casting materials for durability and precision.
- Remanufactured rack and pinion assembly for Audi TT and TT Quattro
- Constructed with steel and aluminum casting materials
- Includes tie rod ends for complete steering functionality
- Input shaft diameter of 0.67 inches (16.92 mm) and length of 2.63 inches (66.68 mm)
- Distance between mounting holes: 4.38 inches (111.13 mm)
- Pressure port thread size M14 x 1.5 and return port thread size M16 x 1.5
- Total turns lock to lock: 2.75
- Black steering rack color with banjo/washer hose port type
About the Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly Product Line
The Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly product line focuses on remanufactured steering components that meet or exceed OEM specifications. This line is engineered to restore steering precision and reliability for vehicles like the Audi TT and TT Quattro. Each assembly undergoes rigorous testing to ensure proper fitment and function, making it a practical replacement option for worn or damaged steering racks.
Detailed Product Description
This Cardone rack and pinion assembly (part number 26-2918) features a robust combination of steel and aluminum casting materials, providing strength where needed and reducing weight where possible. The assembly includes two mounting holes spaced 4.38 inches apart, ensuring a secure fit in the steering system. The input shaft measures 0.67 inches in diameter and 2.63 inches in length, designed to match the original equipment specifications for the Audi TT and TT Quattro. The assembly also includes tie rod ends, which are essential for connecting the steering rack to the wheels. The black finish offers corrosion resistance and a clean appearance under the hood.
Common Applications and Issues Addressed
- Steering that feels hard or stiff during initial driving (often referred to as "morning sickness")
- Power steering pump whining caused by worn rack and pinion components
- Steering not returning to center after turns due to rack or geometry issues
- Replacing a faulty rack and pinion to restore smooth and responsive steering
- Resolving steering play or looseness in Audi TT and TT Quattro models
Installation Notes and Tips
When installing the Cardone 26-2918 rack and pinion assembly, ensure the mounting holes align precisely with the vehicle’s frame using the 4.38-inch spacing as a guide. Verify that the input shaft dimensions match the steering column connection to avoid fitment issues. Bleed the power steering system thoroughly after installation to prevent air pockets that can cause pump noise or steering stiffness. Since the assembly includes tie rod ends, check alignment after installation to maintain proper steering geometry.
Quality Assurance and Warranty
This remanufactured rack and pinion assembly undergoes comprehensive testing to meet OEM standards for fit, form, and function. Cardone provides a warranty on this part to cover defects in materials and workmanship, ensuring dependable performance for your Audi TT or TT Quattro. Using this assembly helps maintain the integrity of your vehicle’s steering system with a reliable replacement component.
| Brand | Cardone |
| Part Number | 26-2918 |
| Position | Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| Casting Material | Steel; aluminum |
| Distance Between Mounting Holes (in) | 4.38 |
| Distance Between Mounting Holes (mm) | 111.13 |
| 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 | Banjo/washer |
| Input Shaft Diameter (in) | 0.67 |
| Input Shaft Diameter (mm) | 16.92 |
| Input Shaft Length (in) | 2.63 |
| Input Shaft Length (mm) | 66.68 |
| Number of Mounting Holes | 2 |
| Package Contents | Rack and pinion, instruction sheet |
| Pressure Port Thread Size | M14 x 1.5 |
| Product Condition | Remanufactured |
| Rack Length (in) | 50.81 |
| Rack Length (mm) | 1290.65 |
| Return Port Thread Size | M16 x 1.5 |
| Steering Rack Color | Black |
| Thread Length (in) | 2.40 |
| Thread Length (mm) | 60.96 |
| Tie Rod Ends Included | Yes |
| Total Turns Lock to Lock | 2.75 |
This part fits 15 vehicles. Search below:
| Year | Make | Model | Drive Type | Liters | Cylinders | Position | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2006 | Audi | TT | AWD | 1.8L | L4 | 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 | Audi | TT | FWD | 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 | Audi | TT Quattro | 1.8L | L4 | 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 | |
| 2005 | Audi | TT | 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 | |||
| 2005 | Audi | TT Quattro | 1.8L | L4 | 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 | |
| 2004 | Audi | TT | 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 | |||
| 2004 | Audi | TT Quattro | 1.8L | L4 | 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 | |
| 2003 | Audi | TT | 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 | |||
| 2003 | Audi | TT Quattro | 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 | |||
| 2002 | Audi | TT | 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 | |||
| 2002 | Audi | TT Quattro | 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 | |||
| 2001 | Audi | TT | 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 | |||
| 2001 | Audi | TT Quattro | 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 | |||
| 2000 | Audi | TT | 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 | |||
| 2000 | Audi | TT Quattro | 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.