tie rod end removal

[power=dsm]

I have the bolt off. I don't have access to a pickle fork or the tie remover tool. I was wondering if i can smash the top of the screw with a rubber mallet till it comes loose then just pull the tie rod end off the steering knuckle?

 

[power=dsm]

i think i can hit the top of the bolt with a hammer but i'm afraid of turning the bolt into a mashroom

 

[Woodsy0]

You could try using a pry bar as a makeshift pickle fork, provided the bar end is wide enough to get around the bolt and long enough to actually rock the tie rod out of the taper. If you're going to pound the bolt with a sledge, thread a nut partially on the bolt, and then hit that. Safer than hitting the actual bolt itself. If you have the means to get to an Autozone, they have a rent-a-tool service for ball joint seperators and pickle forks, so you can rent the tools for free, getting your money back after you return them.

Good luck, and remember to measure the length of the threads showing on the existing tie rod before removing it, that way you'll have a good idea of how far to thread the next one without messing up your toe angle that much.

 

[No_Skillz]

Booyah:

http://www.dsmtuners.com/forums/showthread.php?t=222278

 

[Woodsy0]

power=dsm,

Are you replacing an inner tie rod or an outer tie rod end?

 

[Morel]

I was stuck in the same situation.. I just took the biggest fattest flathead screwdriver I had, wedged it in there and gave it a few wacks..

Came right out...

Of course they were REALLY bad, and needing of replacement, so you results may vary

 

[power=dsm]

power=dsm,

Are you replacing an inner tie rod or an outer tie rod end?

outer tie rod

 

[Woodsy0]

Ah. In that case, disregard the tech article hyperlink that no_skillz forwarded. Try the aforementioned tips to get the ball joint loose, let us know if you have any more problems.

Also, check your new tie rod and make sure the boot has grease in it. It should. If not, take a grease gun and shoot some in there.

 

[99redgst]

Using a large hammer hit the knuckle on the side where the tie rod goes in. Do not hit the tie rod itself. It might take few good wacks but it will pop out. I would suggest a hammer or small sledge somewhere between 3-5 pounds, a rubber mallet is not going to cut it.

 

[No_Skillz]

Oops. Outer tie rod and on a 1g. Less drinking and more reading for me.

 

[Woodsy0]

Haha, nothing wrong with that, not at all.

 

[2GeNTSi]

Hit the side? How would that work since the tie rod is sort of pressed in?

 

[lasertim]

Hit the side? How would that work since the tie rod is sort of pressed in?

It is a tapered fit and the shock of the hammer should release it from the taper. It is best if you can hit both sides at the same time.

If you arent re-using the tie rod end just leave the nut on a few threads and whack it with a hammer, it will pop right out.

If you are replacing with new make sure to set toe as best as you can and drive as little as possible until you get an alignment. No need for cupping or feathering on your tires.