11 Inch Rack & Pinion

OVERVIEW

When you are piloting a high-speed sand rail or a dedicated dragster, steering precision isn''t just a luxuryit''s a safety requirement. The EMPI 11-inch Rack and Pinion is engineered to replace cumbersome, vague steering boxes with a streamlined, lightweight solution that provides instant feedback from the tires to the driver''s hands. By utilizing a high-quality aluminum housing, this unit significantly reduces front-end weight, which is critical for maintaining proper weight bias in rear-engine Volkswagen-based builds. Whether you are navigating tight technical dunes or trying to keep a rail straight at the end of a quarter-mile strip, this rack and pinion assembly eliminates the "dead spot" common in aging worm-and-roller boxes, giving you the confidence to push your machine to its absolute limits.

This specific EMPI unit is a favorite among builders for its ultra-fast 1-1/2 turn lock-to-lock ratio. This quick-ratio steering is specifically tuned for short-wheelbase vehicles where rapid corrections are necessary to maintain control. The 11-inch eye-to-eye width makes it an ideal fit for narrow-frame sand rails and lightweight custom front ends, providing a compact footprint without sacrificing structural integrity. The polished aluminum body not only looks professional in a show-quality chassis but also resists the harsh elements of off-road environments. When you choose an EMPI steering component from Appletree Auto, you are investing in decades of air-cooled performance heritage, ensuring that your steering geometry remains crisp, predictable, and reliable through every turn and jump.

FITMENT

• Custom Sand Rails: All years and models utilizing a custom front steering mount.
• Dune Buggies: Ideal for Manx-style or fiberglass buggies with modified front beams.
• Dragsters: Specifically designed for lightweight front-end assemblies in drag racing.
• Off-Road Play Cars: Fits most tubular chassis front ends designed for 11-inch racks.
• Custom Street Rods: Can be adapted to lightweight custom builds requiring a narrow steering rack.

SPECS

• Overall Length: 11 Inches (Measured eye-to-eye).
• Mounting Bolt Spacing: 1-1/4 Inches on center.
• Steering Ratio: Ultra-fast 1.5 Turns Lock-to-Lock.
• Housing Material: Lightweight, high-strength polished aluminum.
• Internal Gears: Precision-machined heavy-duty steel rack and pinion set.
• Weight: Approximately 2.75 lbs for minimal front-end mass.
• Body Style: Compact "Small Body" design for tight clearance applications.
• Part Number: AC425145 (EMPI 16-2180-0).

PRO TIPS

1. Eliminating Bump Steer Through Proper Geometry

To achieve the best handling characteristics, it is vital to minimize "bump steer" during your installation. Bump steer occurs when the suspension travels up and down, causing the vehicle to steer itself due to improper tie-rod angles. When mounting your