Tie Rod End Ball Joint Rotation Torque Check

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

Required Special Tools:

MB990326: Preload Socket
MB991897 or MB992011: Ball Joint Remover

CAUTION:

Loosen the jam nut (tie-rod end connection) from the ball joint, but do not remove here. Use the special tool.
To prevent the special tool from dropping off, suspend it with a cord.

Install special tool MB991897 or MB992011 as shown in the illustration.

Fig 1: Identifying Special Tool MB991897 Or MB992011
Courtesy of MITSUBISHI MOTOR SALES OF AMERICA.
Turn the bolt and knob to make the special tool jaws parallel, then hand-tighten the bolt. After tightening, check that the jaws are still parallel.
NOTE: To adjust the special tool jaws to be parallel, set the orientation of the knob as shown in the illustration.
Unscrew the bolt to disconnect the ball joint.

Fig 2: Adjusting Special Tool Jaws To Be Parallel
Courtesy of MITSUBISHI MOTOR SALES OF AMERICA.
Move the ball joint stud several times and install the nut on the stud. Using the special tool MB990326, measure the ball joint rotation torque.
Standard value: 2.9 N.m (26 in-lb) or less
If the rotation torque exceeds the standard value, replace the tie rod end (Refer to DISASSEMBLY AND ASSEMBLY ).
If the rotation torque is under the standard value, check the ball joint for end play or ratcheting. If no end play or ratcheting, the ball joint can be re-used.
Install the tie rod end to the knuckle, then tighten a new jam nut to the specified torque.
Tightening torque: 52 ± 2 N.m (38 ± 1 ft-lb)

Fig 3: Measuring Ball Joint Rotation Torque
Courtesy of MITSUBISHI MOTOR SALES OF AMERICA.