Parts for your 2022 Ford Ranger-Rack boots

2022 Ford Ranger rack boots: what they do and how to look after them

Based on technical sources including the Ford Workshop Manual for Next‑Gen Ranger (2022MY, Section 211‑02 Steering Gear and Linkage) and Ford’s Electronic Parts Catalogue listings for “Boot — Steering Gear,” the 2022 Ford Ranger runs a rack‑and‑pinion Electric Power‑Assisted Steering (EPAS) assembly that uses rack boots (also called steering gear bellows). So yes — rack boots are absolutely relevant and fitted on the 2022 Ranger.

On this ute, the rack boots are the flexible bellows at each end of the steering rack. Their job is to keep dust, water and grit out of the inner tie rod joints and the rack bar, while letting the steering move freely. They also help retain the correct grease around the inner joints. Because the 2022 Ranger uses EPAS (not hydraulic power steering), you won’t be chasing power steering fluid leaks into the boots — but a torn boot can still let water and mud in, which can corrode the rack or shorten the life of the inner tie rods.

For owners who tour, tow or hit tracks with creek crossings, keeping these boots intact is cheap insurance. A quick visual check at each service interval (or before/after a big trip) is the go. Look for:

• Splits, cracks or perishing in the rubber
• Loose or missing clamps
• Grease flung onto the control arms or chassis

If a boot’s damaged, replace it promptly. The usual steps are to remove the wheel, mark the tie‑rod length, pop the outer tie‑rod end out of the knuckle, cut the old clamps, slide off the boot, inspect the inner tie‑rod for play, then fit a quality OE‑spec boot with new clamps. Re‑set the tie‑rod length and get a proper wheel alignment. On EPAS racks, avoid twisting or stretching any wiring to the steering gear and keep the rack centred during the job. Torque fasteners to the specs in the Ford Workshop Manual.

Quality matters here: a correctly moulded boot with proper stainless clamps will outlast a universal slip‑on. In Aussie and Kiwi conditions — corrugations, red dust, beach sand and winter slop — a $30–$70 boot can save a very spendy steering rack. Add them to the regular inspection list alongside tyres, brakes and suspension bushes, and the Ranger’s steering will stay tight and happy for the long haul.

Popular questions about 2022 Ford Ranger rack boots

Do 2022 Ford Rangers have rack boots?
Yes. The 2022 Ranger’s EPAS rack‑and‑pinion steering uses protective bellows (rack boots) on both sides to shield the inner tie rods and rack bar from dirt and water.

How often should the rack boots be checked or replaced?
Give them a visual check at every service or after heavy off‑road use or water crossings. Replace any boot that’s split, perished or has loose clamps. There’s no fixed kilometre interval — condition is king.

Can driving with a torn rack boot damage the steering rack?
It can. A torn boot can let in mud and water, leading to corrosion or inner tie‑rod wear. That can progress to play in the steering or premature rack failure, so it’s best sorted straight away with a boot replacement and a wheel alignment.