Steering rack and steering box rebuilds.
Allcoast rebuilds steering racks and steering boxes on site at its Burleigh Heads workshop. Each unit is inspected first, and a rebuild goes ahead only where the housing and internal parts are in a condition that makes it worthwhile. Retail and trade customers can enquire.
Or enquire about a rack or box by form
Racks and boxes, explained simply
- Steering rack rebuilds
- Most modern cars use a rack and pinion: the steering shaft turns a small gear that moves a long rack side to side, pushing the wheels. Leaking seals, worn bushes and play in the rack are typical reasons to consider a rebuild.
- Steering box rebuilds
- Many older vehicles, four-wheel drives and light commercials use a steering box instead. A box converts the steering wheel's rotation into movement of the steering linkage, and can develop leaks, play or tight spots as it wears.
- What a rebuild involves
- Generally the unit is removed, dismantled, cleaned and inspected, worn seals and parts are replaced where parts are available, and it is reassembled and checked before refitting. The exact scope depends on the unit and its condition.
- Removed units from the trade
- If you are a workshop or business with a rack or box already out of the vehicle, say so in your enquiry and the workshop will discuss the next step with you.
When a rack or box may need attention
These symptoms can also come from pumps, hoses, tie rods or suspension, which is why the workshop inspects before recommending a rebuild.
- Fluid on the rack boots, around the box or dripping near the front wheels
- Free play or vagueness in the steering wheel
- Knocking or clunking felt through the wheel
- Steering that is heavier in one direction than the other
- Tight or notchy spots as you turn
If the steering suddenly becomes heavy, unresponsive or unpredictable, pull over when it is safe, stop driving and call for assistance rather than continuing the trip.
What the workshop checks before a rebuild
The inspection decides whether rebuilding the original unit is the right call.
- Where the leak or play is actually coming from
- Seal and boot condition
- Wear in the rack, pinion or box internals
- Damage to housings and sealing surfaces
- Mounting bushes and tie rod ends
- Parts availability for that unit
Not every rack or box can be rebuilt
Whether a component can be repaired or rebuilt depends on what the inspection finds: wear inside the housing, damage to sealing surfaces and the availability of parts all decide it. If a rebuild is not the right answer for your component, the workshop will explain why and talk you through the alternatives before any work goes ahead.
Steering rack & box rebuilds: common questions
Something else? Contact the workshop
Can every steering rack or box be rebuilt?
No. Some units have housing damage, heavy internal wear or no available parts. The workshop inspects the unit and explains the options, including replacement where a rebuild is not suitable.
Is rebuilding better than replacing?
It depends on the unit, its condition and what is available for your vehicle. The workshop will talk through the options after inspection so you can decide.
Do you rebuild racks and boxes for other workshops?
Allcoast works with trade customers as well as the public. Use the booking request form, choose Trade customer, and the workshop will be in touch to discuss the job.
How long does a rebuild take?
That depends on the unit, what the inspection finds and parts availability. Ask the workshop when they contact you about your request.
Enquire about a rack or box.
The service is already selected. Add your vehicle and a preferred date, and the workshop will contact you to confirm availability. Dates are requests, not confirmed bookings.
Or call (07) 5522 1344, Mon to Fri, 8 am to 4 pm.
The workshop is in Burleigh Heads.
Shed 3 / 41 Taree Street, Burleigh Heads QLD 4220Monday to Friday 8:00 am to 4:00 pm
Public holiday hours may differ, so call ahead.