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Inner Tie Rod: Removal

NOTE: When servicing inner tie rods, a new bellows boot and clamps must be installed. 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 failure of the steering gear components. Zip ties must not be used as they do not provide an airtight seal.
NOTE: The inner ball joint grease is not compatible with water contamination. Do not allow water to become trapped in the grease or degradation and failure of the joint may occur.
NOTE: If the RH inner tie rod is being serviced, the Left Hand (LH) outer tie-rod end and bellows boot must also be removed to access and hold the steering gear rack when loosening and tightening the inner tie rod.
  1. With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. For additional information, refer to JACKING & LIFTING .
  2. Loosen the tie-rod jam nut.
  3. Remove and discard the outer tie-rod end nut.
    4. NOTE: Use care when installing the Ball Joint Tool Separator or damage to the tie-rod end boot may occur.
    Fig 1: Separating Outer Tie-Rod End From Wheel Knuckle
    G06124826Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  4. Using the Ball Joint Tool Separator, separate the outer tie-rod end from the wheel knuckle.
    5. NOTE: Note the number of times the outer tie-rod ends turn for reference during assembly.
  5. Remove the outer tie-rod end.
  6. Remove the tie-rod jam nut from the inner tie rod.
    7. NOTE: New bellows boot clamps must be installed.
  7. Remove and discard the inner and outer bellows boot clamps.
  8. Remove and discard the steering gear bellows boot.
    9. NOTE: The steering gear rack must be held while loosening or tightening the inner tie rod or damage to the steering gear may occur. Place the steering gear at the center position. 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 Left Hand (LH) side when servicing the Right Hand (RH) inner tie rod.
  9. While holding the steering gear rack, use an appropriate-sized crowfoot wrench to remove the inner tie rod.
  10. Thoroughly clean and inspect all the parts to be reused. Install new parts as necessary.
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