Pre 89 vs 89+ Steering rack differences (especially rack & tie rod ends)

DeSloth

New Member
Jun 24, 2007
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Australia
Hi guys and girls,

Firstly, I have done a search, but my apologies if I have over-looked anything (past midnight here). Feel free to point me in the right direction if this is the case.

I am planning a complete front end rebuild including new inner and outer tie-rod ends. (or rack ends if you prefer)

However, I am finding them listed seperately for 86-88 and 89-92.

For example these vs these


Does anyone know the difference between the early and late model steering racks, so I can look on my car?

I plan to order these offf ebay or similar, and don't want to screw it up :)

My car is an Australian MA71 with a build date of September 1988 - it has most of the 89+ changes (i.e. front bumper, rear taillights, .. all the cosmetic stuff) but it missed out on round engine mounts and a few other 89+ changes.
 
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DeSloth

New Member
Jun 24, 2007
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0
Australia
Is anyone able to help here?

I've done a bit more searching across several forums, but have only been able to find vague info. I am reading about some differences in rack / tie rod-end length, but nothing concrete.

Can anyone point me in the right direction here?

I really need to order this part for my front-end rebuild. The Supra (daily driven) is off the road until then.

Thanks in advance.
 

DeSloth

New Member
Jun 24, 2007
220
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Australia
Got under the car again and measured and inspected the inner and outer ends on my own car. I can't see a single difference between the two sides, so pulled the trigger on the 89+ ebay purchase.

If they are threaded differently, I am screwed :p

Will keep this updated.

Fingers crossed :)
 

SupraMario

I think it was the google
Mar 30, 2005
3,467
6
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The Farm
Well I hope they aren't cause I'm about to buy a 91 complete rack with ends. I hope they mount up to the 87 ><
 

marc3

canadian blood
Jul 19, 2006
229
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quebec,canada
Differences include pre-89 having a steering damper, thus, one of the inner tie rods have a bracket to hold it. After 89 I believe something on the rack changes , something for the variable steering assist.
 

DeSloth

New Member
Jun 24, 2007
220
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0
Australia
Although my original question will be answered by my 'suck it and see' approach, it would be good to have a solid list of documented differences.

Catalogues I have looked at list the rack ends seperately for 86-88 and 89+...

I will make the time to look into this properly & report back :)
 

kotu100

Active Member
Nov 23, 2006
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Easton, Ma
i just ordered 89+ rack ends, should be in, in about a week or so. i will post up my findings when they come in.
btw i have a 10/88 build date 89 supra, still has the pre 89 motor mounts.