Changing Steering Rack Cushions

[lsrxlex]

My local mechanic said that alignment should be done after changing the two steering rack cushions on my 1990 LS: "Grommet, steering", part # 45517-50010 and 45516-50011.

Is there a way to avoid the alignment?

Thanks.

[nc211]

I had mine replaced and didn't need one on my 95'.

[GRAND_LS 4]

Does it feel like it needs an alignment??

[lsrxlex]

My mechanic said since he has to remove both cushions at the same time, the rack and pinion would be completely detached. And after reinstallation, the steering rack might be "shifted to one side". I already told him that I just had an alignment done a month ago at Lexus dealer, but he said that won't help.

I hope he is wrong.

[RFeldes]

As Grand LS 4 said, Drive it after the change and see. Sears did an outstanding job on my alignment, for cheap, with computer print out and all. Drive-ability was night and day.

[nc211]

I fail to see why your mechanic has to detach anything to change those two cushions. It's two bolts to remove the U shaped cover and then it's pulling them off, putting the other on. They're split rubber, so it's not necessary to remove anything.

[lsrxlex]

I'm sorry for the confusion.

He meant he would have to remove those 2 bolts only, so the rack would be detached from that area of the chassis.

I just wonder why removing these 2 bolts could mess up the alignment?