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Cardone 26-9004 Rack and Pinion Assembly
Overview of Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly 26-9004
The Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly 26-9004 is designed specifically for Volkswagen Beetle, Golf, and Jetta models. This remanufactured steering component ensures reliable steering performance by combining durable steel and aluminum casting materials.
- Remanufactured rack and pinion assembly for Volkswagen vehicles
- Constructed with steel and aluminum for strength and weight efficiency
- Includes tie rod ends for complete installation
- Black steering rack color with precise mounting hole spacing of 4.13 inches (104.78 mm)
- Input shaft diameter of 0.65 inches (16.43 mm) and length of 2.63 inches (66.68 mm)
- Pressure port thread size M14 x 1.5 and return port thread size M16 x 1.5
- Banjo/washer type hose port for secure fluid connections
- Total turns lock to lock: 2.94 for responsive steering control
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 engineered to restore steering precision and reliability in vehicles such as the Volkswagen Beetle, Golf, and Jetta. Each assembly includes necessary hardware like tie rod ends and is built with a combination of steel and aluminum casting materials to balance durability and weight.
Detailed Product Description
This remanufactured rack and pinion assembly (part number 26-9004) is tailored for Volkswagen Beetle, Golf, and Jetta models, providing a direct replacement for worn or damaged steering racks. The assembly features a 49.5-inch (1257.3 mm) rack length and two mounting holes spaced 4.13 inches (104.78 mm) apart, ensuring proper fitment and secure installation. The input shaft measures 0.65 inches (16.43 mm) in diameter and 2.63 inches (66.68 mm) in length, compatible with the vehicle’s steering column interface. The hose port uses a banjo/washer type connection, and the pressure and return ports have thread sizes M14 x 1.5 and M16 x 1.5 respectively, matching factory specifications. The black finish provides corrosion resistance and a clean appearance under the hood.
Common Steering Issues Addressed by This Rack and Pinion Assembly
- Hard steering during initial minutes of driving (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 damaged or worn rack and pinion
- Leaking or damaged steering rack causing fluid loss and steering issues
Installation Notes and Tips
- Ensure the mounting holes align precisely with the vehicle’s frame using the 4.13-inch spacing
- Check input shaft dimensions (0.65 inch diameter, 2.63 inch length) for compatibility before installation
- Bleed the power steering system thoroughly after installation to remove air and prevent pump noise
- Use the included tie rod ends to complete the steering linkage assembly
- Follow manufacturer torque specifications for pressure and return port fittings (M14 x 1.5 and M16 x 1.5 threads)
Quality Assurance and Warranty
The Cardone Rack and Pinion Assembly 26-9004 is remanufactured to meet OEM standards, ensuring reliable performance and durability. Each unit undergoes rigorous testing to verify proper function and fitment for Volkswagen Beetle, Golf, and Jetta models. Warranty coverage details are provided by Cardone and typically include protection against defects in materials and workmanship.
| Brand | Cardone |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 26-9004 |
| Position | Rack and Pinion Assembly |
| Casting Material | Steel; Aluminum |
| Distance Between Mounting Holes (in) | 4.13 |
| Distance Between Mounting Holes (mm) | 104.78 |
| E-Waste | No |
| Hose Port Type | Banjo/Washer |
| Input Shaft Diameter (in) | 0.65 |
| Input Shaft Diameter (mm) | 16.43 |
| 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) | 49.50 |
| Rack Length (mm) | 1257.30 |
| Return Port Thread Size | M16 x 1.5 |
| Steering Rack Color | Black |
| Thread Length (in) | 2.45 |
| Thread Length (mm) | 62.23 |
| Tie Rod Ends Included | Yes |
| Total Turns Lock to Lock | 2.94 |
This part fits 32 vehicles. Search below:
| Year | Make | Model | Body Type | # Doors | Liters | Cylinders | Fuel Type | Position | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2007 | Volkswagen | Beetle | Convertible | 2 Door | N/A | with Sport Suspension; To Chassis # 1Y-7-413 420; 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 | Volkswagen | Beetle | Hatchback | 2 Door | N/A | with Sport Suspension; To Chassis # 1C-7-512 080; 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 | Volkswagen | Beetle | N/A | without Variable Ratio 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 | |||||
| 2006 | Volkswagen | Golf | N/A | without Variable Ratio 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 | |||||
| 2005 | Volkswagen | Beetle | N/A | without Variable Ratio 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 | |||||
| 2005 | Volkswagen | Golf | N/A | without Variable Ratio 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 | |||||
| 2005 | Volkswagen | Jetta | N/A | without Variable Ratio 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 | |||||
| 2004 | Volkswagen | Beetle | N/A | without Variable Ratio 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 | |||||
| 2004 | Volkswagen | Golf | N/A | without Variable Ratio 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 | |||||
| 2004 | Volkswagen | Jetta | N/A | without Variable Ratio 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 | |||||
| 2003 | Volkswagen | Beetle | N/A | without Variable Ratio 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 | |||||
| 2003 | Volkswagen | Golf | N/A | without Variable Ratio 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 | |||||
| 2003 | Volkswagen | Jetta | N/A | without Variable Ratio 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 | |||||
| 2002 | Volkswagen | Beetle | N/A | without Variable Ratio 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 | |||||
| 2002 | Volkswagen | Golf | N/A | without Variable Ratio 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 | |||||
| 2002 | Volkswagen | Jetta | N/A | without Variable Ratio 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 | |||||
| 2001 | Volkswagen | Beetle | N/A | without Variable Ratio 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 | |||||
| 2001 | Volkswagen | Golf | N/A | Brazil Built; 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 | |||||
| 2001 | Volkswagen | Golf | N/A | German Built; without Variable Ratio 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 | |||||
| 2001 | Volkswagen | Jetta | N/A | without Variable Ratio 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 | |||||
| 2000 | Volkswagen | Beetle | N/A | without Variable Ratio 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 | |||||
| 2000 | Volkswagen | Golf | N/A | Brazil Built; 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 | |||||
| 2000 | Volkswagen | Golf | N/A | German Built; without Variable Ratio 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 | |||||
| 2000 | Volkswagen | Jetta | N/A | without Variable Ratio 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 | |||||
| 1999 | Volkswagen | Beetle | N/A | without Variable Ratio 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 | |||||
| 1999 | Volkswagen | Golf | 2.8L | V6 | 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 | |||
| 1999 | Volkswagen | Golf | 1.9L | L4 | DIESEL | 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 | ||
| 1999 | Volkswagen | Golf | 2.0L | 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 | |||
| 1999 | Volkswagen | Jetta | 2.8L | V6 | 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 | |||
| 1999 | Volkswagen | Jetta | 2.0L | 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 | |||
| 1999 | Volkswagen | Jetta | 1.9L | L4 | DIESEL | 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 | ||
| 1998 | Volkswagen | Beetle | N/A | without Variable Ratio 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.