Tie Rod End, Removing And Installing, Hydraulic Power Steering Gear: Removing

-- Park the vehicle on the hoist.

-- Remove the wheel.

-- Measure the dimension -a- between the tie rod head -1- and the left and right tie rod -2- and make a note of the value. Dimension -a- should be the same on the left and right sides after installing.

Fig 1: Measuring Tie Rod / Tie Rod Head Dimension

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, LLC

-- If necessary, shorten the "longer" tie rod end (install it deeper into the tie rod).

-- Remove the nut -1- from the tie rod end joint pin -2- until it is flush with the joint pin threads. When tightening, counterhold on the joint pin inner hex socket.

Fig 2: Identifying Tie Rod End Joint Pin

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, LLC

To Protect the Thread, Screw the Nut on the Pin Several Turns.

-- Remove the tie rod end from the wheel bearing housing using the :T40010A  . Remove the nut.

Fig 3: Removing Tie Rod Ball Joint

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, LLC

-- Only loosen the nut -2-. Counterhold the tie rod end -3-.

Fig 4: Identifying Tie Rod End & Nut

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, LLC

-- Remove the tie rod end -3-.