Tie Rod End, Removing And Installing

Special tools and workshop equipment required 

• Puller - Ball Joint: 3287A 
• Torque Wrench 1332 40-200Nm: VAG1332 
• Torque Wrench 1332 Insert - Open Ring Wrench - 24mm: VAG1332/9 

Removing 

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-- Turn the steering wheel in the straight position.

-- Remove the front wheel. Refer to WHEELS AND TIRES .

-- Counterhold the tie rod end -1- and loosen the nut -2-.

NOTE:

To protect the thread, screw the nut on the pin a few turns.

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-- Loosen the nut from the tie rod end, but do not unscrew yet.

-- Press off the tie rod end from the wheel bearing housing using the : 3287A  -1- and then remove the nut.

-- Remove the tie rod end -1- from the tie rod while counterholding on the tie rod hex fitting -arrow- if necessary.

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Installing the Tie Rod End

-- Install the tie rod end -1- on the tie rod -2-.

• The dimension -a- must be the same on the right and left tie rod end.
• The maximum permissible difference between the right and left < 2 mm.
  Fig 1: Measuring Tie Rod Head / Tie Rod Dimension

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Installation is performed in reverse order of removal, while noting the following:

-- Perform a vehicle alignment. Refer to VEHICLE ALIGNMENT .

Tightening Specifications 

• Refer to STEERING GEAR, SERVICING 
• Refer to OVERVIEW - STEERING GEAR 
• Refer to WHEELS AND TIRES