Tie Rod End - Outer, RH, F-250, F-350, 4x4 and F-450, F-550: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Ford Pickup, 2004 Ford F550 Super Duty, 2004 Ford F450 Super Duty, 2004 Ford Excursion, and 2004 Ford Cab & Chassis. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

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

Position and lock the wheels in the straight-forward position. Raise and support the vehicle; Refer to JACKING & LIFTING .
Remove the wheel; Refer to WHEELS & TIRES .
Loosen the adjusting sleeve clamps.

Fig 1: Loosening Adjusting Sleeve Clamps
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Mark the steering damper position. Remove the nuts, washers, and two U-bolts. Position the steering damper out of the way.

Fig 2: Marking Steering Damper Position
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the cotter pin and castellated nut. Discard the cotter pin.

Fig 3: Removing Cotter Pin
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Disconnect and position the tie rod end (3A131) out of the way.
- Use the Steering Arm Remover.
Fig 4: Disconnecting Tie Rod End
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the cotter pin and castellated nut. Discard the cotter pin.

Fig 5: Removing Cotter Pin And Castellated Nut
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Disconnect the tie rod end.
- Use the Steering Arm Remover.
Fig 6: Disconnecting Tie Rod End
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the tie rod end.
- Note the number of turns required to remove the tie rod end.
Fig 7: Removing Tie Rod End
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the adjusting sleeve clamp.

Fig 8: Removing Adjusting Sleeve Clamp
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.