Parts for your 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero-Rack boots

1997 Mitsubishi Pajero rack boots — do they exist on this model?

Short answer: no, rack boots aren’t a thing on a 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero. That year’s Pajero (V20 series) runs a recirculating-ball steering box with a pitman arm, idler arm and a centre/drag link, not a rack-and-pinion setup. Because there’s no steering rack, there are no rack boots to replace. This layout is detailed in the Mitsubishi Pajero V20 Series Workshop Manual (Group 37A – Steering), the Gregory’s Pajero 1991–1999 manual (No. 519, Steering section) and the Mitsubishi ASA/CAPS parts catalogue for 1997 V2x models, all of which list a steering gearbox and linkage, not a rack or rack gaiters.

Rack boots are the rubber bellows that seal and protect a rack-and-pinion steering rack’s inner tie rods from grit and water. On the ’97 Pajero, the steering box and linkages do the job off-roaders expect—strong, simple, and happy copping corrugations and beach runs—so there’s nothing to “boot” over a rack. Instead, owners will see dust boots on the tie-rod ends, an idler arm assembly with its own bush/bearing, and oil seals on the steering box. Those are the bits worth keeping an eye on.

If someone’s told a Pajero owner they need “rack boots,” they’re probably mixing it up with the following service items worth inspecting at each service (or every 10,000 km, sooner if you’re doing a lot of 4WDing, mud or salt):

• Tie-rod end dust boots (cracks or splits let grit in and kill joints).
• Idler arm bush and bracket (play here causes steering shimmy and vague feel).
• Pitman arm and steering box sector shaft seal (look for power-steering fluid weep).
• Power-steering hoses and pump (leaks or groans mean attention needed).
• Front CV boots on the IFS (not steering, but critical—torn CV boots fling grease and chew out joints fast).

Signs it’s time for attention include a clunk over bumps, wandering on the highway, oily residue on the steering box, or visible splits in any rubber boot. After replacing steering linkage parts, getting a wheel alignment is wise to keep tyre wear even and the Paj feeling tight. For off-road touring around Aus or Aotearoa, a quick look under the bonnet and along the front crossmember after water crossings or beach work pays off—salt and silt are not your mates.

FAQ: Does a 1997 Mitsubishi Pajero have steering rack boots?

No. The 1997 Pajero (V20) uses a recirculating-ball steering box with linkages, so there’s no steering rack and no rack boots. You’ll find tie-rod end dust boots and steering box seals instead.

FAQ: What should be inspected instead of rack boots on a 1997 Pajero?

Check the tie-rod end dust boots, idler arm bush/bracket, pitman arm and steering box seals, plus power-steering hoses. While you’re there, inspect the front CV boots—torn CV boots are common after rough tracks.

FAQ: Can universal rack boots be fitted to protect the 1997 Pajero’s steering?

They’re not applicable because there’s no rack. Some owners fit generic bellows as dust shields on exposed linkages, but it’s not an OE solution. Proper fixes are new dust boots, idler components, or seals as needed.