VGRS is standard in LXs starting in model year 2003 and optional depending on build level for ROW LCs.
LC versus LX Steering Rack ?
- Thread starter super90
- Start date
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do I have to use caution when ordering a reman rack then?
Not sure I understand your question. Safest bet is to order the part # specified for your MY LX, or maybe call ACC and ask if they can tell you why the seemingly identical (at least externally) 2003+ LC rack isn't suitable for a LX. But honestly I'm not convinced [but happy to be educated] that LX VGRS has any bearing on the apparent unsuitablity of the LC rack as all the "variable" turning force magic happens within the VGRS actuator on the intermediate shaft and if VGRS shuts down then the steering defaults back to a constant 3.4 turns (iirc) lock to lock which I understand is the same ratio as LCs. You could be a trailblazer and try the LC rack
I wonder if VGRS LCs in other parts of the world have the same rack part # as LXs?
Thanks for the info. I ended up having to go with the Lexus part number at the local Toyota dealership. They would not install the LC part number on the LX.
re_guderian
SILVER Star
I'm all for cheap, but... having just replace 2 steering racks in less than a year on two different cruisers, I don't have a problem paying for this. I'm just gonna guess that few of you have had cruisers with crappy steering? Say an FJ60 whose steering pump perpetually leaked fluid onto a smog pump bearing, freezing it up, and stranding you when the belt seized? Or have had the death-wobble at high speed? My 2000 LC's rack and pump puked out all of it's fluid in fairly short order - minutes, fortunately in my driveway. Not saying this is a typical failure, or that the Lexus/LC rack part number could play into this, just saying that your steering system is one of those "critical" ones, like brakes, and ....well... stopping and going where your steering wheel is pointed are about the 2 most important safety aspects of driving that I can think of. 
After a lot of head scratching, it appears that the LC in 2003 had a steering ratio of 19.8:1. The VGRS decreases the "mechanical steering ratio" in the LX470 from 18:1 to 12.4:1
So the difference might be 19.8 steering ratio in the LC to 18 in the Lexus. Worth $300?
Also, prices have gone up on each. The Lexus (60120) is now around 1250 shipped at best.
So the difference might be 19.8 steering ratio in the LC to 18 in the Lexus. Worth $300?
Also, prices have gone up on each. The Lexus (60120) is now around 1250 shipped at best.
Lexus charged me $2300 for a new steering rack installed and aligned in my 2005 LX470
Well, I doubt I'm the first, but I'm going ot try putting a brand new (box stock) Toyota LC rack in a LX. I think there will be a *slight ration change only (18:1 to 19.8:1). I'll measure it out before and after.
This worked perfectly (though the intermediate steering shaft had to be replaced because the shaft was totally rusted to the rack).
THere is no need to spend the extra $$$ on the Lexus part. The Toyota part works great in my LX now, with VGRS.
With cdan's retirement and Beno in transit, does anyone know if there is a mud vendor or member that can get discounted OE/OEM parts? I'm in need of a rack immediately, and don't want to purchase from my local stealership!
re_guderian
SILVER Star
Camelback Toyota in Phx.
Excellent, thanks re_guderian!
Serious question, what am I missing?
My independent shop (as well as many others here) have had terrible experiences with aftermarket LC steering racks. The shop I just used would not perform the work unless it was a Toyota (or Lexus) rack. They have no problem with any other aftermarket part except steering racks.
Ok. I can understand that.
Did you determine if there is actually rack ratio difference or is the difference come from the VGRS module prior to the rack?
Thanks for rack posting
Bringing this thread back to life.
I want/need to replace the steering rack in my 1999 Land Cruiser. It's been leaking for a few years and feels a little "loose."
A few years ago when the leak was first detected I wish I would have gone ahead and purchased one ($$).
In any case, I am looking to find the right part #(s) I should be searching. Some sites list more than one and some are more expensive than others (e.g. 44250-60100, 44204-60020, etc).
Any help with a part number, changes in the part, and best place to buy is appreciated. Thanks.
I want/need to replace the steering rack in my 1999 Land Cruiser. It's been leaking for a few years and feels a little "loose."
A few years ago when the leak was first detected I wish I would have gone ahead and purchased one ($$).
In any case, I am looking to find the right part #(s) I should be searching. Some sites list more than one and some are more expensive than others (e.g. 44250-60100, 44204-60020, etc).
Any help with a part number, changes in the part, and best place to buy is appreciated. Thanks.
@SmoothLC Here are instructions and PNs for a 98, 99 PNs are the same:
https://forum.ih8mud.com/attachments/land-cruiser-steering-rack-v2-pdf.1711894/
BTW, both PNs you listed are incorrect for the rack, the correct PN is 44250-60050, for example: Toyota Steering Gear 44250-60050 | LHMToyotaSpokaneParts
Also, shaky steering wheel could be the upper steering column shaft. You can easily check for play under your dash. Full post here: How To: Replace your own Upper Steering Column Shaft
https://forum.ih8mud.com/attachments/land-cruiser-steering-rack-v2-pdf.1711894/
BTW, both PNs you listed are incorrect for the rack, the correct PN is 44250-60050, for example: Toyota Steering Gear 44250-60050 | LHMToyotaSpokaneParts
Also, shaky steering wheel could be the upper steering column shaft. You can easily check for play under your dash. Full post here: How To: Replace your own Upper Steering Column Shaft
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