Tie Rod End Ball Joint Breakaway Torque Check
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Dodge Stratus and 2005 Chrysler Sebring. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Required Special Tools:
- MB990326: Preload Socket
- MB991897: Ball Joint Remover
CAUTION:
- Do not remove the nut from ball joint. Loosen it and use special tool MB991897 to avoid possible damage to ball joint threads.
- Hang special tool MB991897 with cord to prevent it from falling.
- Install special tool MB991897 as shown in the figure.
- Turn the bolt and knob as necessary to make the jaws of special tool MB991897 parallel, tighten the bolt by hand and confirm that the jaws are still parallel.NOTE: When adjusting the jaws in parallel, make sure the knob is in the position shown in the figure.
- Tighten the bolt with a wrench to disconnect the tie rod end.
- Move the ball joint stud several times and install the nut on the stud. Measure the ball joint breakaway torque with special tool MB990326.
Standard value: 0.5 - 2.5 N.m (4.4 - 22.1 in-lb)
- If the breakaway torque exceeds the standard value, replace the tie rod end.
- If the breakaway torque is under the standard value, check the ball joint for end play or ratcheting. If no end play or ratcheting, the ball joint can be re-used.
- Tighten the nut to the specified torque and install a new cotter pin.
Tightening torque: 29 +/- 4 N.m (21 +/- 4 ft-lb)