Mechanical steering rack issue? - Corolla 2010

[tookien]

I have a mechanical steering rack taken out for a corolla 2010 which has EPS.

What is it that I'm looking for exactly to determine whether the rack actually has mechanical issues?

When I turn the pinion the rack ends move smoothly in and out. Nothing seems loose or grinding or anything.


I have had a grinding noise ONCE coming from the EPS steering ONCE and maybe some stiffness, so I am trying to diagnose the problem.
But overall the steering has been fine.


Anyone have any experience with rebuilding these racks or a quick way to squeeze some grease inside while I have it out?

I actually know how to rebuild it, but there are some specialty tools required which I don't have, but can eventually makeshift something.


But again, what is the actual issue that would require me to disassemble it.

 

[michaelluscher]

You sure it's not the intermediate shaft binding or the EPS coupler worn out?

 

[tookien]

You sure it's not the intermediate shaft binding or the EPS coupler worn out?

I don't think it is, but I'll double check.

 

[eljefino]

Toyota intermediate shafts aren't great, they get slop or the grease dries out in the needle bearings. I can only imagine their being worse seeing the full force of steering inputs compared to hydraulic power steering.

I would expect a worn-out rack to be worn out at dead center where it spends most of its time, but you'd notice that.