Removal Procedure
- Remove the steering gear boot. Refer to Steering Gear Boot Replacement .
- Place a wrench on the flats of the inner tie rod housing (4).
- Rotate the inner tie rod housing counterclockwise until the inner tie rod (5) separates from the rack (3).
NOTE:
After removing the boot, inspect the inner tie rod for evidence of corrosion or contamination. If none is evident, continue with the repair. If corrosion or contamination is evident, replace the steering gear.
CAUTION:
Do not change the rack bearing preload adjustment before removing the inner tie rod from the steering rack. This could cause damage to the pinion or the steering rack or both.