Preliminary work

Information 

Before removing the tie rod, always check the tie rod joints on both sides. If a joint does not meet the test conditions, it must be replaced.

Only if there is no play in the steering can it be set correctly and the operating reliability of the vehicle can thus be guaranteed.

1. Check tie rod joint.

   Test conditions:  The vehicle must be standing on its wheels in order to check the tie rod joints; vehicles with air suspension must be adjusted to maximum ground clearance.

   Courtesy of PORSCHE CARS NORTH AMERICA, INC.

   1. 1.1. Check that the dust boots, bellows and joints are working perfectly and have no leaks.
   2. 1.2. Check the left tie rod joint.

      Turn the wheels to the right and take hold of the tie-rod ball -1-  . Get a second mechanic to turn the steering by moving the steering wheel back and forth slightly.

      There must be no play on the joint.

      If you detect a certain amount of play that is not caused by the tie rod joint, the axial joint between the steering gear and tie rod is worn  .

   3. 1.3. Check the right tie rod joint.

      Turn the wheels to the left and take hold of the tie-rod ball -1-  . Get a second mechanic to turn the steering by moving the steering wheel back and forth slightly.

      There must be no play on the joint.

      If you detect a certain amount of play that is not caused by the tie rod joint, the axial joint between the steering gear and tie rod is worn  .

2. Remove tie-rod ball → 488119 REMOVING AND INSTALLING TIE-ROD BALL .
3. Remove front underbody panelling → 519219 REMOVING AND INSTALLING COVER FOR FRONT UNDERBODY