Contents: Removal 🠛 Installation 🠛
Removal
1. Remove the tie rod end ball joint (Chapter 23).
2. Cut the clamps and slide the steering gear protective boot off the steering rod.
3. Using suitable pliers, unscrew the inner ball joint of the tie rod from the end of the steering rack. Lock the steering rack by holding the ball joint lock washer with a second pair of pliers. Work carefully to avoid scratching the rack and ball joint.
4. Remove the tie rod/inner ball joint assembly and discard the lock washer - it must be replaced.
5. Make sure the inner hinge moves neither too easily nor too tightly. Inspect the steering rod for damage and deformation. If necessary, replace the tie rod/inner ball joint. It is also recommended to replace the steering gear protective cover.
Installation
6. If a new tie rod is being installed, remove the outer ball joint from the tie rod end.
7. Install the new lock washer assembly onto the end of the steering rack, ensuring the keys align with the chamfers on the end of the rack.
8. Apply a few drops of locking compound to the threads of the inner ball joint. Screw the ball joint into the steering rack and tighten it securely.
9. Place the new protective boot on the tie rod end and install it on the steering gear housing. Rotate the steering gear from one extreme position to the other to ensure the boot is positioned correctly, then secure it with new clamps.
10. Install the tie rod end ball joint (see Chapter 23).