Inner Tie Rod: Installation

Remove old Loctite from rack and inner tie rod threads. Apply Loctite No. 262 to inner tie rod threads. If shock dampener was removed, slide it over rack. Screw inner tie rod onto rack threads. Place towel over rack teeth and position appropriate wrench over shop towel to rigidly hold and support rack. See Fig 1.
While holding rack with wrench, tighten inner tie rod to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS TABLE at the end of this article. Slide shock dampener up against inner tie rod. Apply grease to areas on steering gear and inner tie rod where boot will contact these components when installed. Install steering gear boot and clamps. Ensure boot is not twisted or puckered.
Thread outer tie rod jam nut onto inner tie rod. Thread outer tie rod end onto inner tie rod. To complete installation, reverse removal procedure. Check wheel alignment. For more information, see WHEEL ALIGNMENT SPECIFICATIONS & PROCEDURES article in WHEEL ALIGNMENT.

Fig 1: Removing Inner Tie Rod From Rack

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.