Steering Noise...

[JHebert]

Last week I noticed squeaking when turning at low speeds. Took a look under the car and saw steering rack boot torn. Took to Toyota dealer and they recommended replacing the entire rack. As no fluid ('04 LC uses ATF in power steering) was leaking I opted to just have them clean the joint and replace the boot. Got truck back last night and steering noise is worse, not better. Anyone have experience with this? Is it possible they didn't grease inside boot when they installed?
FYI I'm original owner, 2004 Land Cruiser with 155K miles. 2.5"OME lift. Fair amount of off-road in Texas hill country.

 

[beedo34]

soooooo........ replace the rack

 

[JHebert]

Trying to avoid that.

 

[JHebert]

Additional notes to above. Mechanic says this boot is not packed with grease like an axle boot but that PS fluid travels inside the boots. Does this sound right? Same guy told me last week that if PS fluid is in the boot that means the rack is leaking.

 

[DirtDawg]

The boot is more of a dust protector for the inner tie rod. I guarantee that your inner tie rod is what's squeaking. You can replace that individually as long as your rack is in good shape. Others were offering full rack replacement because they are included with a new rack.

 

[2001LC]

Additional notes to above. Mechanic says this boot is not packed with grease like an axle boot but that PS fluid travels inside the boots. Does this sound right? Same guy told me last week that if PS fluid is in the boot that means the rack is leaking.

Oil in boot indicates a leaky rack, no need to pack with grease.

Try having helper turn steering wheel back and forth while using stethoscope to pin point. @Trunk Monkey just did this and found ball joint(s) needed replacing.

Also check all suspension bushing, missing rubber or dry replacement polys will squeak.

One area that is often over looked is the axle needle bearings & bushings. Greasing of these tend to be missed during wheel bearing service each 30K miles.

 

[Trunk Monkey]

Go buy a $4 harbor freight mechanics stethoscope, get under your truck and have someone turn the steering back and forth. Place the end of the metal rod of the steth on various things. When you touch the squeaky bit, you'll hear it loud and clear.

 

[JHebert]

No need to try to find. Noise is coming from boot / components inside boot.