Parts for your 1999 Daihatsu Gran move-Rack boots

1999 Daihatsu Gran Move rack-boots: what they do and when to replace them

Yes, the 1999 Daihatsu Gran Move (also known as the Pyzar, J1/J102 series) is fitted with steering rack-boots. This is confirmed in the Daihatsu workshop manual steering section for the J1/J102 platform and in the Daihatsu/Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue, which list a bellows-style “steering gear boot” (often called a rack boot or rack gaiter) for the rack-and-pinion assembly.

On this model, the rack-boots are the flexible rubber bellows on each end of the steering rack. Their job is to keep dust, water, and grit away from the rack bar and inner tie-rod joints, and to hold the correct amount of grease around those moving parts. On power-steered cars, a split boot can also let fluid-laden grime build up or hide an internal rack seal leak—so intact boots are more than just cosmetics.

For owners looking to keep their 1999 Gran Move steering tight and quiet, a quick look at the rack-boots during regular servicing makes a lot of sense. Good shops in Australia and New Zealand typically check them at each service or at least every 10,000–15,000 km. Signs they need attention include visible cracks, splits, heavy perishing, oily residue inside the boot, or a boot that’s come loose from its clamp. If dirt makes its way in, inner tie-rod wear and rack corrosion can follow, which gets costly fast.

When replacing, it’s smart to do both sides together and stick with quality rubber or neoprene boots that match the original length and internal diameters. Avoid twisting the boot during fitment, seat it properly in the rack and tie-rod grooves, and use the correct bands or heavy-duty ties—tight enough to seal, not so tight they cut the rubber. If an inner boot is found full of power-steering fluid, that points to a failing internal rack seal, and a rack overhaul may be the real fix.

Because the tie-rod end is usually removed to slip the new boot on, a wheel alignment is recommended afterwards. A technician will also re-grease the inner joint if specified and check for free play while they’re there. Kept in good nick, fresh rack-boots help the Gran Move steer smoothly, protect the rack for the long haul, and save money by preventing bigger repairs down the track.

• Inspect at each service (or 10,000–15,000 km)
• Replace in pairs and realign the front wheels
• Check for fluid inside the boot on power-steered models

Popular questions about 1999 Daihatsu Gran Move rack-boots

Do all 1999 Daihatsu Gran Move models have rack-boots?
Yes. The Gran Move uses a rack-and-pinion steering gear that relies on bellows-style rack-boots at each end. Whether manual or power-assisted, the boots are there to protect the rack bar and inner tie-rod joints from contamination.

What are the signs a rack-boot needs replacing?
Look for splits, perished rubber, loose or missing clamps, or grease and dirt collecting around the boot. On power-steered cars, fluid pooling inside the boot suggests an internal rack seal issue that needs further diagnosis.

Is a wheel alignment required after changing rack-boots?
It’s strongly recommended. The tie-rod end is usually removed to fit the new boot, which can alter toe. A proper alignment ensures the Gran Move tracks straight and protects tyre wear.