Adjusting Sleeve: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Ford RV Cutaway, 2003 Ford Econoline, 2003 Ford E550 Super Duty, 2003 Ford E450 Super Duty, and 2003 Ford Cutaway. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Replace the ball stud if loose in the steering control ball stud socket (3A754) or the tie rod end (3A131) is bent. Replace the front suspension steering ball stud dust seal (3332) if any nicks, cuts or tears are present. Do not attempt to straighten a bent tie rod end.

Raise the vehicle on a hoist, with the wheels in the straight-ahead position.
Remove the tie rod end castle nut.
1. Remove the cotter pin.
2. Remove the nut.
  
  Fig 1: Removing Tie Rod End Castle Nut
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using the Pitman Arm Puller, remove the ball stud from the front wheel spindle (3105).

Fig 2: Removing Ball Stud Front Wheel Spindle (3105)
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the tie rod end.
1. Loosen the nuts on the tie rod adjusting sleeve (3281).
2. Count the number of turns while removing the tie rod end from the tie rod adjusting sleeve.
  
  Fig 3: Removing Tie Rod End
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the tie rod adjusting sleeve. Count the number of turns required to remove the tie rod adjusting sleeve clamp (3287).