Inner Tie Rod

To prevent damage to the rack and pinion boot seal when removing it, the following should be noted. Slide the small end of the boot towards the rack until the groove is exposed. Place a small rubber band in the groove then, slide the small end of the boot over the rubber band and off the threaded end of the tie rod. This will prevent boot damage.

Fig. 5 Inner Tie Rod Removal:

Removal
1. Remove rack and pinion steering assembly from vehicle.
2. Remove outer tie rod from inner tie rod assembly, then rack and pinion boot.
3. Place wrench on flat of rack assembly and place wrench on flats of inner tie rod housing Fig. 5.
4. Rotate housing counterclockwise until inner tie rod separates from rack.

Fig. 6 Inner Tie Rod Installation:

Fig. 7 Inner Tie Rod Staking Procedure:

Installation
Rack must be held during inner tie rod installation to prevent internal gear damage.
1. Install inner tie rod on rack and torque to 70 ft. lbs., Fig. 6.
2. Support rack and housing of inner tie rod assembly, then stake both sides of inner tie rod housing to flats on rack, Fig. 7.
3. Check both stakes by inserting a .010 inch feeler gauge between rack and housing stake.
4. Slide shock damper over housing until it engages.
5. Install boot and rack outer tie rod, then rack and pinion assembly to vehicle.