Tie Rods
Tie Rods
Section titled “Tie Rods”Tie rods connect the steering rack to the steering knuckles, translating rack movement into wheel direction changes.
Inner vs Outer Tie Rods
Section titled “Inner vs Outer Tie Rods”- Inner tie rod: Connects to steering rack, requires rack boot removal
- Outer tie rod end: Connects to steering knuckle, easier to replace
Symptoms of Worn Tie Rods
Section titled “Symptoms of Worn Tie Rods”- Steering wheel play or wandering
- Clunking when turning
- Uneven tire wear
- Failed alignment (toe out of spec)
Replacement Procedure
Section titled “Replacement Procedure”Outer Tie Rod End
Section titled “Outer Tie Rod End”- Mark position on tie rod for alignment reference
- Remove cotter pin and nut (65 Nm)
- Use tie rod separator (pickle fork) or ball joint press
- Thread new tie rod end to same position as old
- Torque nut to 65 Nm, install new cotter pin
- Alignment required
Inner Tie Rod
Section titled “Inner Tie Rod”- Remove outer tie rod end first
- Remove rack boot clamps and slide boot back
- Use inner tie rod removal tool (crowfoot)
- Install new inner tie rod
- Re-install boot and outer tie rod end
- Alignment required