Inner Tie Rod: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2012 Ford Pickup. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: 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 foreign material into the gear, causing damage. Zip ties do not provide an airtight seal and must not be used.

NOTE: When servicing inner tie rods, a new bellows boot and clamps must be installed or a leak may occur causing steering gear damage.

NOTE: The inner tie-rod ball joint grease is not compatible with water. Water trapped in the grease will damage the joint.

NOTE: For vehicles equipped with Electronic Power Assist Steering (EPAS), disconnect the negative battery cable anytime the steering linkage is being serviced or damage to the steering gear internal power relay may occur resulting in steering gear replacement.

If equipped with Electronic Power Assist Steering (EPAS), disconnect the battery ground cable. For additional information, REFER to BATTERY, MOUNTING AND CABLES .
With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. For additional information, REFER to JACKING & LIFTING .
Loosen the tie-rod jam nut.
Remove and discard the outer tie-rod end nut.

NOTE: Use care when installing the Ball Joint Tool Separator or damage to the tie-rod end boot may occur.

Fig 1: Disconnecting Tie-Rod Ends From Wheel Knuckles Using Ball Joint Tool Separator

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using the Ball Joint Tool Separator, separate the outer tie-rod end from the wheel knuckle.

NOTE: Note the number of times the outer tie-rod ends turn for reference during assembly.

Remove the outer tie-rod end.
Remove the tie-rod jam nut from the inner tie rod.

NOTE: New bellows boot clamps must be installed.

Remove and discard the inner and outer bellows boot clamps.
Remove and discard the steering gear bellows boot.

NOTE: Place the steering gear at the center position. Use an appropriate-sized crowfoot wrench on the flat of the rack gear to resist rotation and to prevent damage during removal and installation of the inner tie rod.

NOTE: If repairing the RH side, it will be necessary to pull back the LH inner tie-rod boot to hold the steering gear.

NOTE: An assistant may be needed for removal of the RH inner tie rod.

While holding the steering gear rack, use an appropriate-sized crowfoot wrench to remove the inner tie rod.
Thoroughly clean and inspect all the parts to be reused. Install new parts as necessary.