Parts for your 2001 Mitsubishi Pajero-Steering rack

2001 Mitsubishi Pajero Steering Rack — What It Does and How to Look After It

Technical references confirm the 2001 Mitsubishi Pajero (NM series) is fitted with a hydraulic power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering rack. The Mitsubishi Pajero NM/NP Factory Service Manual (Group 37A – Steering) identifies a rack-and-pinion steering gear, and the Mitsubishi ASA/CAPS parts catalogue lists complete steering rack assemblies and rack bushes for NM/NP models. Independent repair manuals covering NM/NP (2000–2006) likewise describe rack-and-pinion hardware, inner/outer tie-rod ends and rack mount bushes.

On this Pajero, the steering rack converts the driver’s steering wheel input into precise side-to-side movement via the pinion and rack bar, pushing and pulling the tie-rod ends to turn the front wheels. It’s designed to give tidy on-road manners for long Kiwi and Aussie kilometres, with enough durability for touring and light off-road work. The hydraulic assist reduces effort at the wheel, while the rack layout helps accuracy and feedback.

As with any 20+ year-old 4WD, the rack appreciates a bit of care. Regularly check fluid level and condition, use the correct spec fluid for this model (commonly Dexron III ATF, but always confirm on the reservoir cap or in the factory manual). If the fluid’s dark or smells burnt, plan a flush. After fluid service, bleed the system by turning lock-to-lock a few times with the front wheels off the ground, topping up as needed. Keep an eye on the rack boots — tears let water and grit in, which can accelerate wear. Rack mounting bushes are a known wear point on NM/NP, replacing tired bushes (rubber or polyurethane) can tidy up vague steering and clunks.

Signs the steering rack or associated bits need attention include:

• Free play, wandering or tramlining, especially on rutted roads
• Clunks over corrugations or when rocking the wheel at standstill
• Wet, oily rack boots or drips near the pinion area
• Uneven tyre wear or poor self‑centring

When wear is evident, options range from new rack bushes and inner/outer tie-rod ends through to a reconditioned or replacement rack if there’s leakage or internal play. Always book a wheel alignment after any rack or tie-rod work. If the Pajero sees off-road use, inspect the boots and bushes after water crossings or rocky tracks, and avoid holding the wheel hard against the stops for long periods. With fresh fluid, healthy boots and snug bushes, the 2001 Pajero’s rack delivers the steady, confidence-inspiring feel owners expect.

Popular questions about 2001 Mitsubishi Pajero steering racks

Does the 2001 Pajero use a steering rack or a steering box?
It uses a hydraulic rack-and-pinion steering rack. This is documented in the NM/NP factory service manual and parts catalogues, which list the steering gear as rack-and-pinion along with replaceable rack bushes and tie-rod ends.

What power steering fluid should be used, and how often should it be changed?
Many NM/NP Pajeros run Dexron III ATF in the power steering system, but it’s best to confirm on the reservoir cap or in the service manual. Inspect the fluid at regular services, a flush every 60,000–100,000 km (or sooner if the fluid is dark/contaminated) helps keep the pump and rack happy.

Do I need a wheel alignment after steering rack or tie-rod work?
Yes. Any time the rack, inner tie-rods or outer tie-rod ends are replaced or adjusted, the toe setting changes. A proper alignment restores straight-ahead tracking, protects tyre life and brings the steering feel back to its best.