Inner Tie Rod: Removal
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Mercury Montego, 2006 Ford Freestyle, and 2006 Ford Five Hundred. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
CAUTION:
- The boots and clamps are designed to provide an airtight seal and protect the internal components of the steering gear. If the seal is not airtight the vacuum generated during turning will draw water and contamination into the gear, causing premature damage.
- Zip ties do not produce an airtight seal and must not be used.
- The inner ball joint grease is not compatible with water and contamination trapped in the grease will degrade the life of the joint.
- If present, the orientation of the vent tube must be noted so the boots and vent tubes can be installed in the correct location.
- With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. For additional information, refer to JACKING & LIFTING .
- Loosen the tie-rod jam nut.
- Remove the outer tie-rod end nut and disconnect the outer tie-rod end from the wheel knuckle.
- Remove the outer tie-rod end.
- Remove the tie-rod jam nut.
- Remove the outer bellows boot clamp.
- Remove and discard the inner bellows boot clamp.
- Remove the tie-rod bellows boot.
- Using the special tool, remove the inner tie rod.
NOTE:
The hex holding feature can be used to prevent turning of the stud while removing the nut.
NOTE:
Count the number of turns required to remove the tie-rod end for reference during installation.
CAUTION:
Place the steering gear at the center position. Use a suitable tool on the flat of the rack gear to resist rotation and to prevent damage during removal and installation of the inner tie rod.