1. Rack and pinion seals protect the internal assemblies from water and dirt, and should be checked periodically for tears, splits, or other damage or wear. Damaged boots must be replaced immediately to prevent costly damage to the rack and pinion assembly.
2. Remove the outer tie rod of the handpiece (Chapter 16).
3. Remove locknut from inner tie rod.
4.. Use pliers to pinch the outer boot clamp shoulder-width apart and remove it from the inner tie rod.
5. Unscrew the inner clamp of the boot and pull it off the boot onto the rack and pinion housing.
6. Remove boot seal from inner tie rod and vehicle.
7. Clean the dirt from the exposed part of the rail. Lubricate the rail and place some grease inside the new boot seal.
8. Install the new boot seal so that its large end is on the rack and the tab is on the gear housing.
9. Install the wired inner boot clamp on the large end of the boot and tighten it by twisting the clip with pliers.
10. Install the outer boot clamp on the small end.
11. Install the locknut and handpiece tie rod.