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Cardone 26-4044 Rack and Pinion Assembly
Overview of Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly 26-4044
The Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly 26-4044 is designed specifically for Mercedes-Benz C250, C300, and C350 models. This remanufactured steering component ensures precise steering control and reliable performance for your vehicle's steering system.
- Remanufactured rack and pinion assembly with included sealing kit and instruction sheet
- Constructed with durable aluminum casting material for strength and corrosion resistance
- Compatible with Mercedes-Benz C250, C300, and C350 models
- Includes tie rod ends for a complete steering solution
- Features O-ring type hose ports and precise input shaft dimensions (0.79 in diameter, 1.25 in length)
- Rack length of 45.69 inches and 2.75 total turns lock to lock for responsive steering
Detailed Product Description
This Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly 26-4044 is part of the Rack and Pinion Assembly product line, which focuses on remanufactured steering gear components engineered to meet or exceed OEM specifications. The assembly features an aluminum casting that balances lightweight design with durability. It includes two mounting holes spaced 10.38 inches (263.53 mm) apart, ensuring proper fitment and secure installation. The input shaft diameter measures 0.79 inches (20.02 mm) with a length of 1.25 inches (31.75 mm), designed to match the steering column interface on compatible Mercedes-Benz models.
The assembly also comes with tie rod ends included, providing a comprehensive replacement part that addresses multiple steering components at once. Hose ports utilize O-ring seals to maintain hydraulic integrity and prevent leaks. The rack length of 45.69 inches (1160.48 mm) and a total of 2.75 turns lock to lock deliver precise steering response and control.
Common Applications and Issues Addressed
- Steering that feels stiff or hard during initial driving (often referred to as "morning sickness")
- Power steering pump whining caused by air in the system after rack replacement
- Steering not returning to center after turns due to worn or faulty rack and pinion
- Loose or imprecise steering response in Mercedes-Benz C250, C300, and C350
- Leaking or damaged steering gear components requiring a remanufactured replacement
Installation Notes and Tips
- Ensure all mounting holes align correctly with the vehicle chassis using the 10.38-inch spacing
- Use the included sealing kit to prevent hydraulic fluid leaks at hose ports
- Bleed the power steering system thoroughly after installation to remove air and prevent pump noise
- Verify input shaft engagement with the steering column matches the 0.79-inch diameter and 1.25-inch length
- Follow the instruction sheet carefully for torque specifications and alignment procedures
Quality Assurance and Warranty
This remanufactured Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly 26-4044 undergoes rigorous testing to ensure it meets OEM standards for fit, form, and function. The use of aluminum casting material provides corrosion resistance and durability. The product includes a sealing kit and tie rod ends to support a complete and reliable steering repair. Warranty details are provided by Cardone and typically cover defects in materials and workmanship under normal use conditions.
| Brand | Cardone |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 26-4044 |
| Position | Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| Casting Material | Aluminum |
| Distance Between Mounting Holes (in) | 10.38 |
| Distance Between Mounting Holes (mm) | 263.53 |
| E-Waste | No |
| Hose Port Type | O-Ring |
| Input Shaft Diameter (in) | 0.79 |
| Input Shaft Diameter (mm) | 20.02 |
| 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) | 45.69 |
| Rack Length (mm) | 1160.48 |
| Return Port ID Size | 0.436 |
| Steering Rack Color | Black |
| Thread Length (in) | 2.31 |
| Thread Length (mm) | 58.67 |
| Tie Rod Ends Included | Yes |
| Total Turns Lock to Lock | 2.75 |
This part fits 15 vehicles. Search below:
| Year | Make | Model | Drive Type | Position | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | Mercedes-Benz | C350 | N/A | Except Electronic Speed Sensitive Steering; 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 | |
| 2014 | Mercedes-Benz | C250 | N/A | Except Electronic Speed Sensitive Steering; 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 | |
| 2014 | Mercedes-Benz | C350 | N/A | Except Electronic Speed Sensitive Steering; 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 | |
| 2013 | Mercedes-Benz | C250 | N/A | Except Electronic Speed Sensitive Steering; 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 | |
| 2013 | Mercedes-Benz | C350 | N/A | Except Electronic Speed Sensitive Steering; 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 | |
| 2012 | Mercedes-Benz | C250 | N/A | Except Electronic Speed Sensitive Steering; 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 | |
| 2012 | Mercedes-Benz | C350 | N/A | Except Electronic Speed Sensitive Steering; 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 | |
| 2011 | Mercedes-Benz | C300 | RWD | N/A | Except Electronic Speed Sensitive Steering; 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 |
| 2011 | Mercedes-Benz | C350 | RWD | N/A | Except Electronic Speed Sensitive Steering; 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 |
| 2010 | Mercedes-Benz | C300 | RWD | N/A | Except Electronic Speed Sensitive Steering; 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 |
| 2010 | Mercedes-Benz | C350 | RWD | N/A | Except Electronic Speed Sensitive Steering; 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 | Mercedes-Benz | C300 | RWD | N/A | Except Electronic Speed Sensitive Steering; 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 | Mercedes-Benz | C350 | RWD | N/A | Except Electronic Speed Sensitive Steering; 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 | Mercedes-Benz | C300 | RWD | N/A | Except Electronic Speed Sensitive Steering; 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 | Mercedes-Benz | C350 | RWD | N/A | Except Electronic Speed Sensitive Steering; 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.