need rack and pinion install help- something went wrong

[clydesdale]

The problem is the alignment guy thinks I got the wrong tie rod ends in the kit. The car is currently within alignment specs. But the wheel is very slightly off. The center spoke of the wheel should be pointed at the 6 o'clock position. It is about half way between 6 and 7 when the tires are straight. The left tie rod end is maxed out and the right has only 4 threads left showing. Also the wheel turns only 1 3/4 turns to the left and about 2 1/8 to the right. We disconected the steering wheel joints from the rack spline twice to try to center the the steering wheel. But where did I go wrong? Is the rack not centered? My brother thinks the current tie rod ends may be too long. I put a call into the rack and pinion guy, but I am waiting to hear back. I am not sure what is wrong but I also do not like the way the car is handling. Thanks

[deian]

you need to firstly center the rack, then center the steering wheel on the splines, the give each tie rod equal amount of thread and take it from there. hope that helps

[clydesdale]

What is the proper procedure to center the rack. I royally screwed this up and need to get it right. Should I remove the boots to see the internals?