Hi, I have a TE 3.0 and the timing belt is due for replacement and I believe the 3.0 is an interference engine so don't want to see it break. I rang 2 workshops for a quote and both said I need to replace the water pump at the same time. I rang 2 Mitsubishi dealers in Canberra and they said they only replace the belt & 2 cam seal's. I would think the dealers would know best but can anyone tell me which is right please? I also need to replace a rack boot and rod. I know to count the turns taking the tie rod end off and that you need to use vice grips to grab the tie rod to unscrew it from the rack. I assume counter clock wise to unscrew it would be correct but want to make sure. What grease is best for the new joint at the rack end? Thanks Heaps, Kevin

I think the deal is that first timing belt change you only do the belt and idlers, then next one around 200,000km you do the waterpump as well.
Re steering - pretty sure you need to remove the rack to do this properly as the rack end will be staked (or otherwise) to the end of the rack - I've seen it done in the car with vice grips and pipe wrenches on Commodores sometimes with success but sometimes the pinion etc have been damaged. If your vice grips slip on the rack shaft you will damage the seal surface which then stuffs the seal. It's only a few more hours of your time to remove the rack and do the work on a bench. The rack end is lubricated and shares it's lubricant with the rest of the rack. (shares the power steering fluid)
I'd strongly advise that you download the free manual and go to section 37 - I've put the link below. It will show and tell all you need to know. Good Luck.
http://www.lisho.net/?page_id=3

most people replace the water pump while your in there anyways, makes more sence than leaving it and having to pull it all apart again if the pump fails

Thanks heaps for the link to manual and info. Went back through my records and found an invoice from the dealer I rang. The water pump was replaced with the last timing belt at 176000 kms. Makes sense though to replace the water pump as you said, will save on labour if it goes. I've owned the car since 2004 and can say its been great with no problems and goes great, touch wood. It's an Advance with the extras fitted such as cruise control etc. and every thing works and I will keep it until it dies (seems TE's on are hard to break) and it's not really worth anything as a trade in. Thanks Kevin