How to identify the different steering racks?

[Leigh]

Is there any quick or easy way to identify what type of steering rack is fitted to the car,
either by visual inspection, or based on the chasis/VIN number?

Just with all the talk of steering problems and replacement racks I thought it might be a good idea to find out what type mine has just in case I ever need to get a replacement, and rather than wait till it's urgent I'd prefer to have the info ready and waiting.

[davefly76]

the only differences are based on the chassis number and whether the car is 4x4 or not. pretty simple really.

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[Leigh]

Thanks Davefly,
OK, next question (I'm sure you can guess..)

Does anyone have a list of types vs chassis number (mines only an 8V),
(is the chassis number the same thing as the VIN ? - always wondered that).

[davefly76]

Exchange Steering Gear Vauxhall

Gear, Assy., Steering, Rhd, Exchange Exc.4wd L1000001- M1092333 R1100009

Gear, Assy., Steering, Rhd, Exchange Exc.4wd M1092334- S1 -S9 R1100021

Gear, Assy., Steering, Rhd, Exchange 4wd L1000001- N1158929 R1100009

Gear, Assy., Steering, Rhd, Exchange 4wd N1158929- /S1-S9 R1100021

Gear, Assy., Steering, Rhd, Exchange T1-/T9- R1600005

yes, chassis number is the same as vin

what year is your car?

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[Leigh]

That was quick!
1996 , N reg 8V mate. Not near the car at the moment to check my VIN, pretty sure it starts WOLxxxxxx.
From what I've read on here the ZF type is the one to avoid, develops wear due to being made of ally?

[davefly76]

ha ha, bored at work.

it will start with W0L000085xxxxxxxx

your's will probably be the bottom one R1600005. all models from 96 had the same rack so you shouldn't have any problem getting one.

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[Stupink]

The rack will have it printed on a plate near where the steering column joints the rack.
The plate will say ZF if it is a ermm.. ZF rack lol. or just have a part number if it is the other type.

[Leigh]

Cheers guys, I'll have a look over the w/end if I get a chance.
Just bought a load of Meguiars stuff (oops, so much for not spending money on the cred card!), so gonna give that a go as well weather/time willing.

[Toddy]

Just a warning note mate:


Do NOT buy one from Westeren Power Steering. I bought what I though was a reconditioned one, all they had done was give it a spray with black paint. Still had all the old nuts on it and they had painted over loads of rust!!!!

[Leigh]

Ouch, I'm hoping you found that out BEFORE you fitted it to your car ??

[Toddy]

Got it delivered straight to my local garage whp phoned me and told me what he'd found. Went to have a look and it was unacceptable, the paint was just flaking off showing all the rust underneath. Phoned them back up to complain and send it back and they were not very chuffed. Told them they had advertised it as a "reconditioned" one and that they were ripping me off. Sent it back and got my money back off them.