Parts for your 1998 Mitsubishi Pajero-Rack boots

Rack boots on a 1998 Mitsubishi Pajero (V20/NJ–NL): are they used?

Short answer: no, a 1998 Mitsubishi Pajero doesn’t use rack boots. The 1998 model (V20 series – NJ/NK/NL) runs a recirculating-ball steering box with a pitman arm, centre/drag link, idler arm and tie-rods, not a rack-and-pinion setup. Because there’s no steering rack, there are no accordion-style rack boots to worry about.

This isn’t guesswork. Technical references that detail the steering system include: Mitsubishi Motors Pajero V2# Series Workshop Manual (Group 37/37A – Steering/Power Steering, 1997–1999), Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue for V20 Pajero (lists steering gear box, pitman arm, idler arm, centre link, inner/outer tie-rods, no rack assembly or rack bellows), and Gregory’s/Haynes manuals covering 1991–1999 Pajero/Montero. All show a steering gearbox rather than a rack-and-pinion, which is typical for a heavy-duty, ladder-frame 4x4 designed for off-road loads.

Why Mitsubishi went this route comes down to durability and load handling. A recirculating-ball box cops steering impacts and tyre loads better in rough terrain, keeps kickback in check, and suits the Pajero’s front suspension and chassis architecture of the era.

What should owners check instead of rack boots? Look at the dust boots and joints that do exist:

• Tie-rod end boots (inner and outer) – splits here let grit in and grease out, wearing the joints fast.
• Idler arm and pitman arm – inspect play and bush/boot condition, excessive free play will fail a WOF/roadworthy.
• Centre/drag link – check for looseness and torn seals.
• Power steering box – look for leaks at the sector shaft (pitman arm area) and input shaft, adjust lash only to spec.
• Don’t confuse with CV boots – those bellows are on the front driveshafts (IFS models) and are a separate maintenance item.

Service tips for Aussie and Kiwi owners: keep an eye on steering free play at each service, especially if the Pajero tows, runs larger tyres, or sees corrugations. Replace any split dust boots promptly to preserve joint life. If any steering parts are renewed, get a proper wheel alignment. For leaks or excessive play at the steering box, have a specialist inspect before attempting adjustments – over-tightening the box can cause binding and premature wear.

FAQs

Does a 1998 Pajero have rack boots?
No. The 1998 Pajero uses a recirculating-ball steering box, so there’s no rack and no rack bellows to replace. If someone’s told you to change the rack boots, they’re likely thinking of a different model with rack-and-pinion steering.

What boots should be checked on a 1998 Pajero instead?
Check tie-rod end dust boots, idler arm bushes/boots, and the pitman arm area for leaks or play. Also inspect the CV boots on the front driveshafts (if IFS) and the upper/lower ball joint boots – these are common wear items and often flagged at WOF/rego inspections.

Can a rack-and-pinion be swapped into a 1998 Pajero?
Practically, no. It would require custom fabrication, steering geometry changes, certification, and likely won’t suit the chassis. It’s far more sensible to refresh the existing steering box, links, and joints with quality parts.