Tie Rod: Installation

1.

NOTE: Place the steering gear at the center position and hold the steering gear rack while loosening or tightening the inner tie rod. Use an appropriate-sized wrench on the flat/teeth of the rack to resist rotation and to prevent damage during removal of the inner tie rod.

NOTE: An assistant will be needed to hold the steering gear rack on the LH side when servicing the RH inner tie rod.

NOTE: Crowfoot-style inner tie-rod tool shown in illustration.

Remove the tie rod.

Use the General Equipment: Tie Rod Remover and Installer

Torque

: 89 lb.ft (120 Nm)

GFD121615

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY

2.

Apply the specified grease to the steering gear-to-bellows boot mating surface and bellows boot groove on the inner tie-rod.
Material

: Motorcraft® Premium Long-Life Grease / XG-1-E1 (ESA-M1C75-B)

GFD121616

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY

3.

NOTE: Make sure the end of the steering gear bellows boot is positioned between the 2 grooves on the inner tie rod or an internal leak may occur.

Install the new steering gear bellows boot and new clamps.

Use the General Equipment: Boot Clamp Pliers

GFD121617

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY

4.

Thread the tie rod end jam nut onto the tie rod.

GFD121618

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY

5.

If equipped. Install the underbody shield and the retainers.

GFD126958

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY

6.

If equipped. Install the underbody air duct and the retainers.

GFD126957

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY

7.

If equipped. Install the skid plate and the retainers.

GFD126956

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY

8.

Install the tie rod end. Refer to: Tie Rod End .

9.

Install the wheel and tire. Refer to: Wheel and Tire .

10.

Check and if necessary adjust front toe. Refer to: Front Toe Adjustment .