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Home >> Ford >> 2000 >> Contour SE, 2.5 L, Standard >> Repair and Diagnosis >> External Pages >> Different car >> Section 997 (Power Steering System -- F150 Pickup) >> Removal And Installation >> Inner Tie Rod >> Removal

Inner Tie Rod: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Ford Pickup. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Fig 1: Removing/Installing Inner Tie Rod
G03961396Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
CAUTION: The steering gear boots and clamps are designed to produce an airtight seal and protect the internal components of the steering gear. If the seal is not airtight, the vacuum generated during turning will draw water and contamination into the gear, causing premature damage.
CAUTION: Zip ties do not provide an airtight seal and must not be used.
CAUTION: The inner tie-rod ball joint grease is not compatible with water, and contamination trapped in the grease will degrade the life of the joint.
  1. With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. For additional information, refer to JACKING & LIFTING .
  2. Loosen the outer tie-rod end lock nut.
  3. Remove the outer tie-rod end nut.
  4. Using the special tool, separate the outer tie-rod end from the wheel knuckle.
    Fig 2: Using Special Tool To Separate Outer Tie-Rod End From Wheel Knuckle
    G03945476Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  5. NOTE: Note the number of times the outer tie-rod ends turn for reference during assembly.
  6. Remove the outer tie-rod end.
  7. Remove the outer tie-rod end lock nut from the inner tie-rod.
  8. Remove the outer boot clamp.
  9. Remove and discard the inner boot clamp.
  10. CAUTION: If present, the orientation of the vent tube must be noted so the boots and vent tubes can be installed in the correct location.
  11. Remove the steering gear boot.
  12. If removing the RH inner tie-rod, position the LH outer boot clamp from the LH steering gear boot.
  13. If removing the RH inner tie-rod, remove and discard the inner boot clamp and position the LH steering gear boot aside to gain access to the rack gear.
  14. CAUTION: Place the steering gear at the center position. Use a 15/16 inch crowfoot on the flat of the rack gear to resist rotation and to prevent damage during the removal of the inner tie-rod.
    NOTE: An assistant may be needed for removal of the RH inner tie-rod.
    Fig 3: Using Special Tool To Remove Inner Tie-Rod
    G03945486Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  15. Using the special tool, remove the inner tie-rod.