Tie Rod: Installation
WARNING: This page is about a different variant/trim than selected.
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NOTE: Place the steering gear at the center position and hold the steering gear rack while loosening or tightening the inner tie rod. Use an appropriate-sized wrench on the flat/teeth of the rack to resist rotation and to prevent damage during removal of the inner tie rod.NOTE: An assistant will be needed to hold the steering gear rack on the LH side when servicing the RH inner tie rod.NOTE: Crowfoot-style inner tie-rod tool shown.
Install the tie rod. Use the General Equipment: Tie Rod Remover and Installer
Torque: 77 lb.ft (105 Nm)
- Apply the specified grease to the steering gear-to-bellows boot mating surface and bellows boot groove on the inner tie-rod.
Material: Motorcraft® Premium Long-Life Grease / XG-1-E1 (ESA-M1C75-B)
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NOTE: Make sure the end of the steering gear bellows boot is positioned between the 2 grooves on the inner tie rod or an internal leak may occur.
Install the new steering gear bellows boot and new clamps. Use the General Equipment: Boot Clamp Pliers
- If equipped. Position the steering gear heat shield and install the retainers.
Torque: 71 lb.in (8 Nm)
- Thread the tie rod end jam nut onto the tie rod.
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NOTE: Install the outer tie rod the same number of turns recorded during removal.
- Install the outer tie rod end and attach it to the wheel knuckle.
- Install the outer tie rod end nut.
Torque: 111 lb.ft (150 Nm)
- Tighten the tie rod end jam nut.
Torque: 76 lb.ft (103 Nm)
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NOTE: Before installing the shield, inspect the bellows for nicks or tears or damage may result.
Install the under body shield and the retainers.
- Install the wheel and tire. Refer to: Wheel and Tire .
- Connect the battery ground cable. Refer to: Battery Disconnect and Connect .
- Check and if necessary, adjust front toe. Refer to: Front Toe Adjustment .