This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the steering rack boots on a 2024 Rivian EDV 500 electric delivery van with dual motor AWD configuration.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Steering rack boot kit (left) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Steering rack boot kit (right) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Boot clamps (typically included in kit) × 4 — Use OEM specification
• Steering rack grease (if not included in kit) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Open hood and disconnect negative terminal of 12V battery (located in front compartment)
4. Wait minimum 5 minutes for capacitive discharge
5. Raise front of vehicle using appropriate lift or jack and secure on jack stands
6. Remove both front wheels
7. Spray penetrating oil on tie rod end castle nuts if corrosion is present

Procedure

1. 1

   Access steering rack boots
   Remove any necessary splash shields or underbody panels that obstruct access to the steering rack. The EDV 500 may have protective covers over the steering components that need to be removed. Note the location of all fasteners for reinstallation.
2. 2

   Mark tie rod position
   Before removing tie rod ends, measure and record the exposed thread length on each tie rod end relative to the outer tie rod. This will help maintain approximate alignment during reassembly. Use a measuring tape or mark with paint pen.
3. 3

   Remove outer tie rod ends
   Remove the castle nut securing each outer tie rod end to the steering knuckle. If equipped with cotter pins, remove these first. Use a tie rod end separator or pickle fork to separate the tie rod end ball joint from the knuckle. Apply separation tool between the knuckle and tie rod housing, not on the boot or ball joint threads.
4. 4

   Loosen inner tie rod jam nuts
   Using appropriate wrench, loosen but do not remove the jam nuts that secure the outer tie rod ends to the inner tie rod assemblies on both sides. This will allow you to thread off the outer tie rod ends while maintaining approximate adjustment.
5. 5

   Remove outer tie rod ends from inner tie rods
   Count and record the number of turns as you thread each outer tie rod end off the inner tie rod. This provides a reference for reinstallation. Keep left and right sides clearly identified to avoid mixing components.
6. 6

   Remove old boot clamps
   Using wire cutters or boot clamp pliers, carefully cut and remove the clamps securing the boots to both the steering rack housing and the inner tie rod. There are typically two clamps per boot (four total per side). Note the orientation and positioning of clamps for new boot installation.
7. 7

   Remove damaged boots
   Slide the old boots off the inner tie rods and away from the rack housing. If boots are stuck, carefully work them free without damaging the inner tie rod threads or rack housing sealing surfaces. Inspect the exposed areas for any debris or damage.
8. 8

   Clean and inspect steering rack
   Thoroughly clean the exposed rack housing and inner tie rod surfaces using brake cleaner and shop towels. Inspect for any damage, excessive wear, or corrosion. Check that the inner tie rod bellows area is clean and free of dirt or old grease. If significant damage is found, steering rack replacement may be necessary.
9. 9

   Install new boots
   Slide new boots onto the inner tie rods and position them correctly on the steering rack housing. Ensure boots are properly seated in the grooves on both the rack housing and inner tie rod. The small end typically fits on the inner tie rod, and the large end fits on the rack housing. Apply appropriate grease inside boots if specified in kit instructions.
10. 10

    Secure boots with new clamps
    Install new boot clamps in the same positions as the originals. Use boot clamp pliers or appropriate tool to properly tighten clamps ensuring secure fit without over-tightening which could damage the boot material. Ensure clamps are positioned in the boot grooves and not on smooth surfaces where they could slip.
11. 11

    Reinstall outer tie rod ends
    Thread the outer tie rod ends back onto the inner tie rods using the turn count recorded during removal. This should place them very close to original position. Thread them in the same number of turns counted during disassembly.
12. 12

    Reconnect tie rod ends to knuckles
    Insert the tie rod end ball studs into the steering knuckle tapers. Install castle nuts and tighten to proper specification. Since no torque specifications are provided in database, follow Rivian service information. Install new cotter pins if equipped, ensuring proper engagement through castle nut slots.
13. 13

    Tighten jam nuts
    Hold the outer tie rod end with appropriate wrench to prevent rotation, then tighten the jam nut against the outer tie rod housing. This locks the adjustment in place. Ensure tie rod does not rotate while tightening jam nut.
14. 14

    Reinstall underbody panels
    Reinstall any splash shields or protective covers removed during disassembly. Ensure all fasteners are properly secured and no tools or parts are left in the work area.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall both front wheels and hand-tighten lug nuts
2. Lower vehicle to ground and torque wheel lug nuts to Rivian specification in star pattern
3. Reconnect 12V battery negative terminal
4. Verify steering wheel is centered with wheels pointed straight ahead

Verification

• Start vehicle and verify no warning lights related to steering system appear on instrument cluster
• Turn steering wheel lock-to-lock while stationary to verify smooth operation with no binding or unusual noises
• Visually inspect new boots for proper seating and secure clamp installation
• Test drive vehicle at low speed in safe area to verify steering response and center return
• Schedule four-wheel alignment as soon as possible, as tie rod removal affects toe settings
• After alignment, re-inspect boot clamps to ensure they remain properly secured
• Check boots periodically for first few days of operation to ensure no leaks or movement

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