Rack and pinion boot seals — replacement (Mazda Capella GC)

1. Rack and pinion seals protect the internal components of the assembly from water and dirt, and should be inspected periodically for tears, splits, or other damage or wear. Damaged boots should be replaced immediately to prevent costly damage to the rack and pinion assembly.

2. Remove the outer connecting rod of the tip (Chapter 16).

3. Remove the lock nut from the inner tie rod.

4. Use pliers to clamp 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 the boot seal from the inner tie rod and the vehicle.

7. Clean any dirt from the exposed portion of the rack. Lubricate the rack and place a small amount of 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. Place the wire inner boot clamp onto the large end of the boot and tighten it by twisting the clamp with pliers.

10. Install the outer cover clip on the small end.

(The full text is on the website: MazBook)

11. Install the lock nut and the tip connecting rod.