Installing Tie Rod

Install in reverse order of removal. Note the following:

-- Make sure the correct tie rod end is installed on each side.

Fig 1: Identifying Tie Rod Ends

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, INC.

I -

Right tie rod end identified with an "A"

II -

Left tie rod end identified with a "B"

-- Turn steering wheel into straight ahead position.

-- Guide new clamp and bellows onto tie rod.

-- Twist tie rod far enough into tie rod end until dimension -a- is obtained.

Fig 2: Identifying Tie Rod Dimension

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Dimension -a- = 392 +/- 1 mm

-- Tighten the tie rod.

Fig 3: Loosening/Tightening Tie Rod

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1. Open-Jaw Torque Wrench Insert VAG1923
2. Torque Wrench 40-200 Nm VAG1332

-- Slightly grease the sealing surface of the bellow to the tie rod with grease G 052 168 A1 (from the repair kit, from Fuchs Renolit JP1619).

-- Slide bellows -2- onto tie rod -1-, pay attention to correct position when doing this.

Fig 4: Identifying Boot And Tie Rod

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-- Secure spring clamp on bellows using Hose Clamp Pliers VAG1275.

-- Slightly grease the sealing surface of the bellow to the steering gear housing with grease G 052 168 A1 (from the repair kit, from Fuchs Renolit JP1619).

-- Push the boot all the way onto the steering gear housing.

-- Tighten the new clamp with Locking Pliers VAS6199 as shown.

-- Install the wheel and tighten the wheel bolts. Refer to WHEEL BOLT TIGHTENING SPECIFICATIONS .

-- Perform vehicle alignment. Refer to VEHICLE ALIGNMENT .

-- If both tie rods were replaced, then it is necessary to "adapt the basic setting for the steering end stops" with the Vehicle Diagnostic Tester.

Fig 5: Identifying New Clamp Tightened

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, INC.