Parts for your 2001 Daihatsu Gran move-Rack boots

2001 Daihatsu Gran Move rack-boots: what they do and when to replace them

Yes, the 2001 Daihatsu Gran Move (also known as the Pyzar, chassis codes G303/G313) uses rack-boots. This is confirmed by the Daihatsu Gran Move/Pyzar Service Manual (Steering — Rack-and-Pinion section) and Daihatsu’s Electronic Parts Catalogue for the G303/G313, which list “Boot, Steering Gear” (rack boots/gaiters) for both sides of the steering rack.

On the Gran Move, rack-boots are the flexible bellows that sit over each end of the steering rack. Their job is simple but crucial: keep water, grit, and road grime out of the rack-and-pinion while letting the tie rods move freely. They also help keep any light lubrication where it belongs. If a boot splits, contaminants can chew out the inner tie rod and rack seals, and if the car has power steering, you may even spot ATF weeping into the boot from a leaking rack seal.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to eyeball both boots whenever the car’s on the hoist for tyres, brakes, or an oil change. In Aussie and Kiwi conditions, heat and road debris can harden or crack the rubber over time. If there’s a tear, perished rubber, or wetness inside the boot, it’s time to sort it. A split steering boot can lead to a WOF or roadworthy fail.

When replacing rack-boots on a 2001 Gran Move, plan on doing them in pairs. Mark the tie-rod end position before removal to keep the alignment close, but still book in a proper wheel alignment after the job. Slide the old boot off, clean the rack area, check the inner tie rod for play or corrosion, and fit the new boot without twisting it. Use the correct clamps (not cable ties) and orient the breather end as per the manual. Don’t pack the boot with grease—just a light smear on the inner ball joint if specified by the service data. If you find power steering fluid inside a boot, that points to an internal rack seal leak, a new boot won’t fix that by itself.

• Inspection interval: at every service or roughly every 10,000–15,000 km.
• Tell-tales: cracked bellows, oily residue, dirt inside the boot, uneven steering feel, or a clunk from the inner tie rod.
• Parts tip: choose quality EPDM rubber boots sized for the Gran Move/Pyzar G303/G313, and replace clamps with new.

What are the symptoms of a bad rack-boot on a 2001 Gran Move?

Common signs include visible splits or perishing, grease or ATF seeping from the bellows, dirt or moisture found inside during inspection, and, if left long enough, inner tie-rod play or a notchy steering feel. Catching a boot early protects the rack and saves bigger spend later.

Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing rack-boots?

Yes, it’s best practice. Even if you mark the tie-rod ends and refit them carefully, a proper alignment after boot replacement ensures correct toe and even tyre wear. It’s a quick add-on that keeps the Gran Move tracking straight.

Can a new rack-boot stop a power steering leak?

No. If there’s power steering fluid inside the boot, the rack’s internal seal is likely leaking. A fresh boot protects from contamination, but it won’t seal hydraulic leaks. The steering rack will need repair or replacement to fix that.