Parts for your 2017 Toyota Land cruiser-Rack boots

2017 Toyota LandCruiser Rack Boots

Based on technical sources, rack boots are absolutely fitted to the 2017 Toyota LandCruiser (J200 series). The Toyota Service Information (TIS) repair manual for J200 Steering – Rack and Pinion, the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) listing for “Boot, Steering Rack,” and equivalent Lexus LX570 (J200) workshop documentation all show a hydraulically assisted rack-and-pinion steering gear with protective bellows (rack boots) on each end of the rack housing.

On a 2017 LandCruiser, the rack boots are tough bellows that seal the inner tie rods and the ends of the steering rack. Their job is to keep dust, water, mud, and grit out while holding the right amount of grease in. That’s crucial in Aussie and Kiwi conditions—think corrugations, creek crossings, and red dust—where a torn or loose boot can let contaminants chew out the rack and inner tie rods far quicker than you’d expect.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect the boots at every service interval (around 10,000–15,000 km), or whenever the vehicle’s up for a WOF/rego check. Look and feel count here—squeeze the bellows gently and check for cracks, oiliness, or loose clamps.

• Signs a rack boot needs attention:
  • Splits, perishing, or grease seepage on the bellows
  • Wetness from power steering fluid near the boot area
  • Clicking or clunks over bumps, vague steering, or uneven tyre wear
  • Rusty or missing boot clamps

If a boot is damaged, replace it promptly—ideally both sides together. Use quality boots and new clamps, and re-grease the inner tie rod area per the workshop manual. While you’re there, check the inner tie rods and rack ends for play. Because the outer tie-rod end is removed to fit a boot, a wheel alignment is recommended afterwards. Counting threads and marking positions helps, but it’s not a substitute for a proper alignment.

DIY-capable owners can tackle the job with stands, a tie-rod end separator, and the correct torque specs, however, a pro can save time and ensure the rack isn’t twisted or over-clamped. Genuine or reputable aftermarket boots are both fine—go for durability if the LandCruiser lives off-road.

Ignoring a torn rack boot can turn a simple, low-cost fix into an expensive steering rack replacement. For a heavyweight tourer like the 2017 LandCruiser, keeping those boots healthy protects steering feel, tyre life, and the wallet.

How often should rack boots be replaced on a 2017 LandCruiser?

There isn’t a fixed kilometre-based interval. They’re replaced when cracked, torn, perished, or leaking, or if a clamp has failed. Inspect them at every service or before/after remote trips. Heavy off-road use and lots of water crossings mean checking more often.

If one side fails, it’s wise to do both sides and get a wheel alignment afterwards.

Can rack boots be changed without needing a wheel alignment?

You can count threads and mark the tie-rod end to keep toe close, but a proper alignment is recommended. Even a small change to the tie-rod position can affect tyre wear and steering feel, so budget for an alignment after boot replacement.

Are rack boots the same as CV boots on a LandCruiser?

No. Rack boots protect the steering rack and inner tie rods. CV boots protect the constant-velocity joints on the front driveshafts. Both are rubber bellows and both hate heat, age, and debris—but they serve different components and fail in different ways.