96-Ls400 Steering Rack Replacement Part

iMaLexist · August 16, 2013

Can someone please help me find the right part for replacement?

For the 1996 LS 400, there are two types of power steering rack listed in most auto parts websites. One with the EVO built-in and the other without.

Does either one work? Or, it is a silly question?
The OEM # on mine is 44250-50090 (given to me by my local Lexus dealer).

manu date: 04/96, VIN# JT8BH22F5T0059451

I have tried many auto parts websites. Only one has given me a Maval SKU#W0133-1739762 via live chat line, but not in stock and not posted on the web page. So there is no way for me to read the description and confirm if indeed it is the right one.

Thanks,

iMaLexist

billydpowell · August 16, 2013

do the lexus dealer list BOTH, or just one type?? what ever they show, go with it for best results...

they built a pretty good car... right?

iMaLexist · August 19, 2013

Hi Bill,

Thanks for your enthusiastic response. I, however, need someone to direct me whether I should order the one with EVO or the one without. Does either one work?

You seem like a respectable old-timer who has owned enough Lexus LS400 to be able to tell them apart blind-folded. If I was to order the part from my local dealer, I would have to sell my car first to buy the part. You know what I mean. It would just cost me that much. That is the reason for me resorting to visiting various websites looking for after market refurbished parts. But, they do not tell me enough for me to pin-point the correct part.

I would appreciate if you can guide me on that.

Thanks once again for your time, Bill.

iMaLexist

billydpowell · August 19, 2013

ok Ima, I read you can just order it without and you can just put your EVO on it.. they dont wear out, so just unscrew it (like an oil filter), and screw it on the new one.. it is only for high speed turning dampening..

you will do fine..

iMaLexist · August 26, 2013

Hi Bill,

If I understand you correctly, the EVO is bolted to the outside of the assembly
unit (that is if I was to order one that comes with it). And, if one that comes without the EVO, then the existing EVO in my Lexus will be mated to the new unit during installation. I question these because some threads I read seem to imply there is a screen
inside the EVO that may collect gunk in the fluid and eventually causes that EVO not to respond the way it should.

Another thread also suggested that an inline power steering fluid filter should be installed to further safe-guard contamination to the
power steering rack by dirty fluid. Is that a legitimately good practice? Or, it is just a fairy tale.

Thanks,

Kevin