Tie rod ball joint, removing and installing

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Special tools, testers and auxiliary items required

Fig 1: Socket V.A.G 1332/12

GW00019997

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN UNITED STATES, INC.

Socket V.A.G 1332/12
Torque wrench V.A.G 1332

Removing

Remove wheel.

Fig 2: Removing/Installing Hex Head Nut And Bolts

GW00019998

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN UNITED STATES, INC.

Remove bolt - 1 -.
Remove hex head nut - 5 - and remove bolt - 2 -.

NOTE:

The slits in the wheel bearing housing must not be widened using a chisel or similar tool!

Fig 3: Identifying Steering Arm & Tie Rod Ball Joint Sealing Washer

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN UNITED STATES, INC.

Do not use a chisel or similar tool between steering arm - 1 - and tie rod ball joint sealing washer - 2 - when removing tie rod, otherwise sealing washer could be damaged.
Tie rod may only be pressed off steering arm over tie rod ball joint pin ends or driven with a wooden or rubber hammer.

Press tie rod downward

Fig 4: Removing/Installing Hex Head Nut And Bolts

GW00019998

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN UNITED STATES, INC.

Loosen hex head nut - 3 - and remove tie rod ball joint. Hex head - 4 - on tie rod aids in counterholding.
Ensure tie rod ball joint and clamp hole on wheel bearing housing are free of grease.

Installing

Installation is in reverse order of removal. Note the following:

Screw tie rod ball joint onto tie rod to stop.

Fig 5: Removing/Installing Hex Head Nut And Bolts

GW00019998

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN UNITED STATES, INC.

Tighten combi-nut - 3 - , to do this, use socket V.A.G 1332/12. When tightening, counterhold at tie rod hex head - 4 -.
Align tie rod so that tie rod ball joint pints are in installation location.
Insert tie rod in steering arm to stop.

Fig 6: Identifying Steering Arm & Tie Rod Ball Joint Sealing Washer

GW00019803

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN UNITED STATES, INC.

NOTE:

Install tie rod in steering arm - 1 - only by hand and do not stress tie rod end seal - 2 -.

Fig 7: Removing/Installing Hex Head Nut And Bolts

GW00019998

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN UNITED STATES, INC.

Insert bolt - 2 - and screw on nut - 5 - and tighten
Install bolt - 1 - and tighten.
Mount wheel and tighten. This information is contained in AESIS; Library; Additional Information; Wheels and Tire Guide
Perform vehicle alignment → Wheel alignment .

Alignment must take place on a VW/Audi recommended alignment stand.