Disassembly & Reassembly
- Remove cotter pin and castle nut. Using Tie Rod Remover (J-6627-A), remove tie rod outer ball stud. Remove inner ball stud from relay rod in same manner.
- Loosen clamp bolts. Unscrew tie rod end assemblies noting number of turns needed to remove. If tie rod adjuster clamp bolts are rusted, new nuts and bolts must be used.
- Apply penetrating oil between clamps and tube. Rotate clamps until they move freely. Use new fasteners. Lubricate tie rod threads with chassis lube. Install tie rod ends. Ensure both ends are threaded an equal distance on tie rod.
- Check that threads on ball studs and nuts are clean and smooth. Check condition of ball stud seals. Replace seals (if necessary). Install ball studs in steering arms and relay rod.
- Install castle nuts and new cotter pins. Adjust toe-in. See WHEEL ALIGNMENT . Before tightening clamp bolts, ensure clamps are between locating dimples at either end of sleeve. Adjuster sleeve slot must not be within open area of clamp jaw opening. See Figure.
- Position of tie rod end must be maintained while tightening clamps to ensure free travel of each joint. Tighten clamps to specification. Lubricate tie rod ends.