V70 steering rack options

[FLXC90]

per abscate and scot850, the fifth line on the data plate is either a 6 or 7 digit number (both my S70 and V70 were early enough production that they were both 6 digit.) If there are only six, it was TRW, if 7 then 4 for TRW, 5 for SMI. But all that really matters is that you install a unit complete with inner tie-rods. Or if you are doing tie-rods, that you get the compatible type. Best ID is a tag on the unit, otherwise, the shape of the boss on the pinion can help. As I recall, SMI racks are rounded and TRW are Hex. But that needs fact checking.

[abscate]

As I recall, SMI racks are rounded and TRW are Hex. But that needs fact checking.

I think it’s the other way around. Evita is the only one in my fleet with a TRW rack and I’m pretty sure it’s a round cap?

Will confirm today

[erikv11]

Round cap = TRW, hex cap = SMI

https://www.matthewsvolvosite.com/forum ... 4&start=10

[FLXC90]

Thanks for the fact checking. Can we start saying we have ZF steering racks, TRW made good parts, but ZF has that whole euro-performance vibe!

[abscate]

I’m seeinng confusing info on the Web about the original installed rack

Some sites refer to 11th digit of VIN bring 1 or 2

There is definitive info that the fifth row on the option plate ( inside of driver fender in NA) aid 4 or 5 for TRW or SMI racks

I doubt there are two codes for this

Okay, new found knowledge

Vin position 11 determines plant of manufacture

Pos 11 Factory Code:
1 2 B P G
0-9 and X
2019 year models
Torslanda Plant, Sweden Ghent Plant, Belgium Chengdu Plant, China Daqing Plant, China South Carolina, USA


It seems like one factory used TRW racks and the other SMI. PARTS PLACES ARE Using that vin position to determine rack, but of course after 20 years of service, the rack may have been replaced already.

Based on my cars which were all Ghent built, code 2, they have SMI Racks

Evita the S70 has a TRW rack but I know it was replaced.

[JimBee]

Apart from seals leaking, what is the main reason a steering rack is replaced?

[erikv11]

What do you mean? That's basically the reason for the vast majority, leaking outer seals.

[JimBee]

That's what I was asking.

[abscate]

I think leaks cover 99% of replacements.