Removal and Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Ford Pickup, 2005 Ford F550 Super Duty, 2005 Ford F450 Super Duty, and 2005 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 steering linkage stud dust seal if any nicks, cuts, or tears are present. Do not attempt to straighten the steering linkage components.

Place the steering wheel in the straight-ahead position.
With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. For additional information, refer to JACKING AND LIFTING .
Loosen the adjusting sleeve nut.

Fig 1: Loosening Adjusting Sleeve Nut
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the cotter pin and the inner tie-rod end nut.
- Discard the cotter pin.
  
  Fig 2: Removing The Cotter Pin And The Inner Tie-Rod End Nut
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using the special tool, disconnect the inner tie-rod end.

Fig 3: Disconnecting Inner Tie-Rod End
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: Count the number of turns required to remove the tie-rod end for reference during assembly.

Fig 4: Removing Inner Tie-Rod End

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Remove the inner tie-rod end.

NOTE: When repairing the linkage clean the damper shaft of all corrosion and dirt. Buff the damper shaft smooth. Repairing the linkage changes the damper travel slightly. A dirty/corroded shaft can damage the damper seal and create a leak.

NOTE: If the cotter pin does not line up with the slot in the nut, increase the torque until the next slot in the nut aligns with the hole in the stud. Never loosen the nut to align the slot.

To install, reverse the removal procedure.
- Check the front wheel toe-in. For additional information, refer to SUSPENSION SYSTEM-GENERAL INFORMATION .