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 2003 Ford Pickup, 2003 Ford F550 Super Duty, 2003 Ford F450 Super Duty, and 2003 Ford Excursion. 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.
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: Removing Nuts, Washers, And Two U-Bolts
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the cotter pin and castellated nut. Discard the cotter pin.

Fig 3: Removing Cotter Pin And Castellated Nut
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 And Positioning Tie Rod End Out Of Way
  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.