32 21 231 Replacing (removing and installing) left or right track rod

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2016 MINI Cooper Paceman, 2015 MINI Cooper Paceman, 2014 MINI Cooper Paceman, and 2013 MINI Cooper. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special tools required:

32 3 210

IMPORTANT: The steering box must be replaced if the polished surface of the rack is damaged (e.g. by corrosion)!

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove TRACK ROD END FROM SWIVEL BEARING
Remove GAITER FROM STEERING BOX and slide back

IMPORTANT: To avoid damage to rack and to suspension mounting, move rack in as far as possible.

Fig 1: Releasing Joint Using Special Tool (32 3 210) And Socket SW32

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Release joint with special tool 32 3 210 and socket SW32 (1) on steering box rack.

Installation note:

Clean rack.

Check surface of rack for damage (e.g. corrosion).

Grease toothed area of rack (Lubricating grease FB-1: part number part number 2 208 093).

Tightening torque 32 21 3AZ .

Replacement:

IMPORTANT: On vehicles with 18" tires and/or vehicles with Sport brake, if applicable, it will be necessary to install steering stop limiters to be ordered separately!

Slide both steering stop limiters (1) onto steering linkage.

Installation note:

Deformation elements (2) must point to steering box (3).

Fig 2: Sliding Both Steering Stop Limiters Onto Steering Linkage

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Tightening torque 32 21 3AZ .

On replacement, assemble new part with gaiter.

Grease track rod at the fit of the gaiter (1) with grease "FB-1 part number 2 208 093".

Fig 3: Identifying Gaiter

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Determine dimension (A) to simplify following adjustment of front axle

Installation note:

Slacken clamping bolt (1) and screw off track rod end.

Slide gaiter with ear clip and band clamp on track rod.

Screw in track rod end to dimension (A).

Tightening torque 32 21 2AZ .

Fig 4: Identifying Track Rod End Dimension

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After installation:

Only if replacing/removing track rod end: Perform CHASSIS/WHEEL ALIGNMENT CHECK