Inner Tie Rod: Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 Ford Mustang. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

While holding the steering gear rack, use a suitable crowfoot-style inner tie-rod tool or an appropriate-sized crowfoot wrench to install the inner tie rod.
- Tighten to 120 Nm (89 lb-ft).

Fig 1: Using Suitable Crowfoot-Style Inner Tie-Rod Tool To Install Inner Tie Rod While Holding Steering Gear Rack

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: Apply steering gear grease to the steering gear bellows boot groove in the inner tie rod.

NOTE: Make sure the steering gear bellows boot is positioned correctly over the steering gear housing bead and the groove in the inner tie rod.

NOTE: Make sure the steering gear bellows boot is not twisted and the vent tube is securely inserted into the vent nipple of the steering gear bellows boot.

Install the steering gear bellows boot.
Using the Boot Clamp Pliers, install a new inner bellows boot clamp.

Fig 2: Installing Inner Bellows Boot Clamp

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: Make sure the end of the steering gear bellows is positioned between the 2 grooves on the inner tie rod or an internal leak can result.

Install a new outer bellows boot clamp.
Thread the tie-rod end jam nut onto the inner tie rod.

NOTE: Install the tie-rod end the same number of turns as recorded during the removal.

Install the tie-rod end to the inner tie rod.
Position the tie-rod end to the wheel knuckle and install a new tie-rod end nut.
- Tighten to 80 Nm (59 lb-ft).
Tighten the tie-rod end jam nut.
- Tighten to 55 Nm (41 lb-ft).
Check and, if necessary, adjust the front toe. For additional information, refer to SUSPENSION SYSTEM - GENERAL INFORMATION .