Removing tie rods

[zandi]

Looks like a easy job? Is it?

I already know how to get them off the wheel, but then what exactly goes on from there? How do you remove those clamps on the boot? And do you need any special tools to remove it from the steering rack and install it?

[erik325i]

Re: Removing tie rods

Looks like a easy job? Is it?

I already know how to get them off the wheel, but then what exactly goes on from there? How do you remove those clamps on the boot? And do you need any special tools to remove it from the steering rack and install it?

Not hard at all. i just replaced mine today. My rubber boot was clammped down with zipties. There are no special tools needed for this job. To remove the tie rod from the steering rack, I just used a large adjustable wrench. To remove the other end from the strut housing, you can either use a pickle fork if you have one, or do what I did. I unscrewed the nut a little bit so the top of it sat flush with the top of the bolt. I set a ball peenhammer on top of the bolt and hit it with a second hammer. Works like a charm.

[zandi]

My boot isnt clamped with zipties though, its clamped one by these steel clamps on one side, the other side is zipties. Did you just cut them?

[erik325i]

My boot isnt clamped with zipties though, its clamped one by these steel clamps on one side, the other side is zipties. Did you just cut them?

Yeah, just go ahead and cut them off. You can just use zipties to reattach it when you are done.

[zandi]

What about the steel clamps?

[erik325i]

What about the steel clamps?

Just try to pry it loose, and then cut it off with a big pair of dikes.

[PeaveyBassist]

To get the boot off, just cut those steel bitches. They arent that hard anyways. Once you get the boot slid off, there will be a goldish looking lock plate that keeps the tie rod from turning. You're gonna want a hammer, and a flathead screwdriver with a really small head. Try to either hit it from the bottom or the top until the plate starts to bend. Once you can get a larger flathead in there, get it in and hit away. Once the plate is fully bent back, I used a pipe wrench to turn the rod, then it should be able to turn out by hand. It just threads into the rack. It took me about an hour and a half for each side. This includes jacking the car up, and down...everything. And this is the first time I ever did a tie rod change too :) Good luck!

Will

[zandi]

what do you use to put the tabs on a new locking plate back on the tierod to hodl it down?

[Jordan]

You use a mechanic, because you are apparently completely fucking helpless.

[zandi]

And how do I delete posts by a individual named Jordan? Can someone tell me how? Thanks.

Ok dude, I'm sorry I'm not as handy with tools and I don't have everything on hand, but I'm learning so why don't you take a chill pill and have a coffee or something?

[Jordan]

And how do I delete posts by a individual named Jordan? Can someone tell me how? Thanks.

Ok dude, I'm sorry I'm not as handy with tools and I don't have everything on hand, but I'm learning so why don't you take a chill pill and have a coffee or something?

I own this forum. Your best bet is to click "log out" and never return.

I've never heard of a real "chill pill" and I do not drink coffee.

Seriously, go back and read your above posts. Changing tierods is a 20 minute job, NO MORE!

You required help every single step of the way, IE you are helpless.

[zandi]

I know, I know...

[PeaveyBassist]

20 minute job for the mechanic who does it alot :) It took me a lot longer. The ONLY thing that took me so long is getting the lock plates bent off the old tie rod. Other than that, it is quick as hell. Jordan is right though :)

Will

[zandi]

Oh yeah I got it now, I'm was just extra paranoid about damaging the tierod itself.

[bimmerbmx]

You use a mechanic, because you are apparently completely fucking helpless.

awesome, i love browsing around my shop looking for someone to give a hard time, great for business.

lame man... :|