Two problems related to steering rack and pinion have been reported for the 1998 Ford Ranger. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Rack and pinion has failed at only 38,000 miles and within 2 years without warning. Cause unknown.
The day after purchasing the vehicle, (1998 Ford Ranger) the consumer had to get the rack and pinion steering changed. (see odi number 10052130 for consumer complaint regarding 2002 Ford escape).