Item 24: Spindle Tie-Rod Removal Note

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Mercury Mountaineer and 2004 Ford Explorer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CAUTION: Place the steering gear at the center position. Use a 1 1/16 in. crowfoot on the flat of the rack gear to resist rotation and to prevent damage during removal and installation of the front wheel spindle tie-rod.

NOTE: If repairing the RH side, it will be necessary to pull back the LH inner tie rod boot to hold the steering gear.

NOTE: An assistant may be needed for removal of the RH front wheel spindle tie-rod.

Fig 1: Removing Front Wheel Spindle Tie-Rod

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using the (A) special tool, remove the (B) front wheel spindle tie-rod.

CAUTION: Thoroughly remove any abrasive material. This material is extremely harmful to the steering gear.

Thoroughly clean and inspect all the parts to be reused. Replace the parts as necessary.