On 2008 and later Highlander V6 and 4WD models, as well as 2009 through 2015 RX350 models, the tile engine/transaxle assembly must be removed to replace the power Rack And Pinion. Begin by parking the vehicle with the front wheels straight, loosening the front wheel lug nuts, raising the front, and securely supporting it on jackstands. Apply the parking brake and remove the wheels, along with the engine under-covers if applicable. Place a drain pan under the Rack And Pinion, detach the power steering pressure and return lines, capping the ends to prevent fluid loss and contamination. Detach the tube-support bracket from the top of the Rack And Pinion assembly, using a line fitting wrench to avoid damaging the fittings. Mark the relationship of the intermediate shaft to the steering shaft U-joint and remove the pinch bolt, then loosen the shaft cover clamp bolt and pull the cover up. For models with electronically modulated air suspension, detach the height control sensor linkage from the left control arm and remove the sensor. Mark the relationship of the lower intermediate shaft U-joint to the Rack And Pinion input shaft and remove the U-joint pinch bolt. Separate the tie-rod ends from the steering knuckle arms, detach the links from the ends of the stabilizer bar, and remove the bushing retainer bolts, noting that the Rack And Pinion mounting bolts cannot be removed until the stabilizer bar is lifted. Remove the Rack And Pinion mounting nuts, lift the stabilizer bar, and knock out the Rack And Pinion mounting bolts. Separate the intermediate shaft U-joint from the Rack And Pinion input shaft and remove the Rack And Pinion assembly from the left side of the vehicle, checking the Rack And Pinion mounting grommets for excessive wear or deterioration and replacing them if necessary. For installation, raise the Rack And Pinion into position, connect the intermediate shaft U-joint to the steering input shaft while aligning the marks, and install the mounting bolts and nuts, tightening them to the specified torque. Connect the tie-rod ends to the steering knuckle arms, install the steering shaft U-joint pinch bolt in the passenger cab, and tighten it to the specified torque, ensuring the alignment marks match if the intermediate shaft was separated. Connect the power steering pressure and return hoses to the Rack And Pinion, fill the power steering pump reservoir with the recommended fluid, and reattach the bracket to the top of the Rack And Pinion assembly. Finally, install the stabilizer bar bushing retainer bolts and bar end links, tighten them to the specified torque, lower the vehicle, and bleed the steering system.
Posted by LexusPartsNow Specialist 
