Q: How to replace a steering gear boot on Mercury Mariner?
A: Loosen the lug nuts, raise the vehicle and support it securely on jackstands. Remove the wheel. Remove the tie-rod end and jam nut. Remove the outer rack and pinion boot clamp with a pair of pliers. Cut off the inner boot clamp with a pair of diagonal cutters. Slide off the boot. Before installing the new Rack and Pinion Boot, wrap the threads and serrations on the end of the steering rod with a layer of tape so the small end of the new boot isn't damaged. Slide the new boot into position on the rack and pinion until it seats in the groove in the steering rod and install new clamps. Remove the tape and install the tie-rod end. Install the wheel and lug nuts. Lower the vehicle and tighten the lug nuts to the torque.