2g Can Tie Rods be spun apart?

[hsk8te2006]

The jam nut on my passenger tie rod is rusted tight to the inner rod, and I prefer to not hastle with replacing the whole inner tie rod or paying a mechanic to do it. So, my solution: Cut the nut off, use a die to cut the rust out of the threads on the inner tie rod, and install a new nut.

Here's my catch... I'd prefer not to try taking the outer tie rod end off if I don't have to... 16 years of rust is sure to break something.

Here's my real question and my reason for posting: If the whole front end is jacked up (so both wheels can turn freely left to right), can the tie rod ends (inner and outer) be spun apart while both are still attached so I can get a die on the inner tie-rod end WITHOUT having to try and remove the outer tie-rod end from the knuckle?

Thanks!

 

[2gmitsueclipse]

Why are you just trying to replace the nut? There must be something wrong with either the inner or outer tie rod if you are wanting to work on it. I highly suggest you consider replacing the outer tie rod (comes with a new jam nut). Soak everything with some PB blaster or Kroil a day before doing the job. You can rent a ball-joint separator (free after return) to get the out tie rod off.

If your inner tie rod has play or is bent, you need to remove the outer tie rod to to fit the appropriate inner-tie rod removal tool on the rod for removal. Here is such a tool:
http://www.autozone.com/test-scan-a...chevrolet-colorado-and-gmc-canyon/291414_0_0/

Either way, the outer tie rod needs to be removed. Moog makes a great replacement that comes with zerk fittings for greasing.

 

[iceman510]

No they will not. The inner tie rod will spin its ball joint, but the outer cannot rotate installed (without lengthening or shortening) and definitely not with the jam nut tight.

 

[asexton6969]

Penetrating oil and heat, tie rod nuts are almost always stuck on. Think of how often they get moved....not very. Use some MAP gas to heat the nut up red hot. Keep working penetrating oil and heat. Should eventually break loose. Also make sure you are on the nut tight or you risk rounding it off.

 

[miliman13]

Heart, heat, sweat, penetrating juice, breaker bar, persistence and doing the job correctly will go along way. I'd it's been this long go the extra mile for your " baby " and do it all correctly.

 

[gst-turbo]

I had this problem also when doing my coilovers and i ended up just using a grinder to cut it up and bought new ones

 

[2gmitsueclipse]

I am guessing the OP figured it out on his own or took it somewhere as it has been nearly a month with no reply from the OP.