Removal And Installation
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Ford Pickup, 2007 Ford F550 Super Duty, 2007 Ford F450 Super Duty, and 2007 Ford Cab & Chassis. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
NOTE:
Install a new tie-rod end if the ball stud is loose in the socket or the tie-rod end is bent. Install a new 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, refer to JACKING AND LIFTING article.
- Loosen the 2 adjusting sleeve nuts.
- To install, tighten to 55 Nm (41 lb-ft).
- Loosen the adjusting sleeve bracket nut.
- To install, tighten to 18 Nm (13 lb-ft).
- Remove the cotter pin, retainer cap and outer tie-rod end nut.
- Discard the cotter pin.
- To install, tighten to 115 Nm (85 lb-ft).
- Discard the cotter pin.
- Using the special tool, disconnect the outer tie-rod end from the drag link outer tie-rod end stud and the wheel knuckle.
- Remove the drag link outer tie-rod end from the drag link adjusting sleeve.
- To install, reverse the removal procedure.
- Check and, if necessary, align the front end. For additional information, refer to SUSPENSION SYSTEM - GENERAL INFORMATION article.
NOTE:
Count the number of turns required to remove the tie-rod end for reference during assembly.
CAUTION:
Make sure that the nut retainer cap is correctly positioned to allow for cotter pin installation. Do not tighten or loosen the nut to align the retainer cap with the cotter pin hole. Overtightening of the fasteners may result in premature failure of steering linkage components.
NOTE:
To avoid premature wear, position the drag link outer tie-rod end so it is parallel with the wheel knuckle before tightening the outer tie-rod end nut.
NOTE:
When repairing the linkage clean the steering linkage 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.