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CardonePart #: 26-2981
Cardone 26-2981 Rack and Pinion Assembly
25 vehicles fit this part
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OE Direct Replacement — Bolt-on fit, no modifications needed
Rack and Pinion Assembly
Fitment: Audi, A4, A4 Quattro, A5, A5 Quattro, S4, and S5
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Overview of Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly 26-2981
The Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly 26-2981 is a remanufactured steering component designed for select Audi models including the A4, A4 Quattro, A5, A5 Quattro, S4, and S5. Engineered with an aluminum casting, this assembly offers reliable steering performance and durability for your vehicle's steering system.
- Remanufactured rack and pinion assembly with aluminum casting
- Compatible with Audi A4, A4 Quattro, A5, A5 Quattro, S4, and S5 models
- Includes rack and pinion, sealing kit, and instruction sheet
- Features O-ring type hose ports and tie rod ends included
- Input shaft diameter of 0.75 inches and length of 1.25 inches
- Rack length of 43.31 inches with 2 mounting holes spaced 20.38 inches apart
- Black steering rack color with pressure and return port ID sizes of 0.436 and 0.54 inches respectively
- 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 gear components that meet or exceed OEM specifications. This line is designed to restore precise steering control and responsiveness for vehicles requiring replacement steering racks. The 26-2981 part number is part of this line, providing a balance of quality and value for Audi drivers needing a reliable steering solution.
Detailed Product Description
This remanufactured rack and pinion assembly features an aluminum casting material that reduces weight while maintaining strength. The assembly includes tie rod ends and a sealing kit to ensure a complete installation. With a rack length of 43.31 inches and mounting holes spaced 20.38 inches apart, it fits securely in the steering system of compatible Audi models. The input shaft diameter of 0.75 inches and length of 1.25 inches are designed to match factory specifications, ensuring proper fit and function. The O-ring hose port type helps maintain hydraulic integrity, while the black finish provides corrosion resistance.
Common Steering Issues Addressed
- Hard steering during initial driving periods, often referred to as "morning sickness"
- Power steering pump whining after rack replacement
- Steering not returning to center after turns
- Air in the power steering system causing noise or poor performance
- Worn or damaged rack and pinion components affecting steering precision
Installation Notes and Tips
- Ensure all mounting holes align correctly with the vehicle chassis (20.38 inches apart)
- Use the included sealing kit to prevent leaks and maintain hydraulic pressure
- Bleed the power steering system thoroughly to remove air and prevent pump noise
- Verify input shaft dimensions (0.75 inch diameter, 1.25 inch length) for proper engagement
- Follow the instruction sheet carefully for torque specifications and installation sequence
Quality Assurance and Warranty
This Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly 26-2981 is remanufactured to meet OEM standards, ensuring reliable performance and durability. The product undergoes rigorous testing to verify functionality and fitment for Audi A4, A4 Quattro, A5, A5 Quattro, S4, and S5 models. Warranty details are provided by Cardone and typically cover defects in materials and workmanship for a specified period.
| Brand | Cardone |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 26-2981 |
| Position | Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| Casting Material | Aluminum |
| Distance Between Mounting Holes (in) | 20.38 |
| Distance Between Mounting Holes (mm) | 517.53 |
| E-Waste | No |
| Hose Port Type | O-Ring |
| Input Shaft Diameter (in) | 0.75 |
| Input Shaft Diameter (mm) | 18.95 |
| Input Shaft Length (in) | 1.25 |
| Input Shaft Length (mm) | 31.75 |
| Number of Mounting Holes | 2 |
| Package Contents | Rack and Pinion, Sealing Kit, Instruction Sheet |
| Pressure Port ID Size | 0.436 |
| Product Condition | Remanufactured |
| Rack Length (in) | 43.31 |
| Rack Length (mm) | 1100.15 |
| Return Port ID Size | 0.54 |
| Steering Rack Color | Black |
| Thread Length (in) | 2.23 |
| Thread Length (mm) | 56.64 |
| Tie Rod Ends Included | Yes |
| Total Turns Lock to Lock | 2.94 |
This part fits 25 vehicles. Search below:
| Year | Make | Model | Position | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | Audi | A4 | N/A | Supplied without EVO Component; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; Recommended to always install a filter and use OE Fluid for warranty purposes; Flush the system with Hydraulic Power.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 2012 | Audi | A4 Quattro | N/A | Supplied without EVO Component; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; Recommended to always install a filter and use OE Fluid for warranty purposes; Flush the system with Hydraulic Power.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 2012 | Audi | A5 | N/A | Supplied without EVO Component; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; Recommended to always install a filter and use OE Fluid for warranty purposes; Flush the system with Hydraulic Power.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 2012 | Audi | A5 Quattro | N/A | Supplied without EVO Component; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; Recommended to always install a filter and use OE Fluid for warranty purposes; Flush the system with Hydraulic Power.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 2012 | Audi | S4 | N/A | Supplied without EVO Component; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; Recommended to always install a filter and use OE Fluid for warranty purposes; Flush the system with Hydraulic Power.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 2012 | Audi | S5 | N/A | Supplied without EVO Component; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; Recommended to always install a filter and use OE Fluid for warranty purposes; Flush the system with Hydraulic Power.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 2011 | Audi | A4 | N/A | Supplied without EVO Component; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; Recommended to always install a filter and use OE Fluid for warranty purposes; Flush the system with Hydraulic Power.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 2011 | Audi | A4 Quattro | N/A | Supplied without EVO Component; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; Recommended to always install a filter and use OE Fluid for warranty purposes; Flush the system with Hydraulic Power.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 2011 | Audi | A5 | N/A | Supplied without EVO Component; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; Recommended to always install a filter and use OE Fluid for warranty purposes; Flush the system with Hydraulic Power.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 2011 | Audi | A5 Quattro | N/A | Supplied without EVO Component; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; Recommended to always install a filter and use OE Fluid for warranty purposes; Flush the system with Hydraulic Power.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 2011 | Audi | S4 | N/A | Supplied without EVO Component; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; Recommended to always install a filter and use OE Fluid for warranty purposes; Flush the system with Hydraulic Power.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 2011 | Audi | S5 | N/A | Supplied without EVO Component; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; Recommended to always install a filter and use OE Fluid for warranty purposes; Flush the system with Hydraulic Power.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 2010 | Audi | A4 | N/A | Supplied without EVO Component; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; Recommended to always install a filter and use OE Fluid for warranty purposes; Flush the system with Hydraulic Power.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 2010 | Audi | A4 Quattro | N/A | Supplied without EVO Component; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; Recommended to always install a filter and use OE Fluid for warranty purposes; Flush the system with Hydraulic Power.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 2010 | Audi | A5 | N/A | Supplied without EVO Component; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; Recommended to always install a filter and use OE Fluid for warranty purposes; Flush the system with Hydraulic Power.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 2010 | Audi | A5 Quattro | N/A | Supplied without EVO Component; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; Recommended to always install a filter and use OE Fluid for warranty purposes; Flush the system with Hydraulic Power.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 2010 | Audi | S4 | N/A | Supplied without EVO Component; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; Recommended to always install a filter and use OE Fluid for warranty purposes; Flush the system with Hydraulic Power.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 2010 | Audi | S5 | N/A | Supplied without EVO Component; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; Recommended to always install a filter and use OE Fluid for warranty purposes; Flush the system with Hydraulic Power.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 2009 | Audi | A4 | N/A | Supplied without EVO Component; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; Recommended to always install a filter and use OE Fluid for warranty purposes; Flush the system with Hydraulic Power.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 2009 | Audi | A4 Quattro | N/A | Supplied without EVO Component; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; Recommended to always install a filter and use OE Fluid for warranty purposes; Flush the system with Hydraulic Power.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 2009 | Audi | A5 Quattro | N/A | Supplied without EVO Component; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; Recommended to always install a filter and use OE Fluid for warranty purposes; Flush the system with Hydraulic Power.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 2009 | Audi | S4 | N/A | Supplied without EVO Component; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; Recommended to always install a filter and use OE Fluid for warranty purposes; Flush the system with Hydraulic Power.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 2009 | Audi | S5 | N/A | Supplied without EVO Component; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; Recommended to always install a filter and use OE Fluid for warranty purposes; Flush the system with Hydraulic Power.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 2008 | Audi | A5 Quattro | N/A | Supplied without EVO Component; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; Recommended to always install a filter and use OE Fluid for warranty purposes; Flush the system with Hydraulic Power.; Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| 2008 | Audi | S5 | N/A | Supplied without EVO Component; Includes Inner Tie Rods; In-Line Filter available; Recommended to always install a filter and use OE Fluid for warranty purposes; 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:
8J04238108T1422065N8T1422065P8T1422065PX8T1422066A8T1422066B8T1422066BX
Cross-reference numbers are provided for identification purposes only. Always confirm fitment before ordering.