Tie Rod Boot: Service and Repair

Rack and Pinion Boot Replacement

Tools Required

J 22610 Keystone Clamp Pliers

Removal Procedure

1. Remove the outer tie rod.




2. Remove the nut (5) from the inner tie rod assembly.
3. Remove the tie rod clamp (4).
4. Use side cutters to remove the boot clamp (2).
5. Discard the boot clamp.
6. Remove the rack and pinion boot (3).

Installation Procedure




1. Install the new boot clamp (2) onto the rack and pinion boot (3).




2. Apply grease to the inner rod (2) and apply grease to the gear assembly (1) prior to the boot (3) installation.




3. Install the boot (3) onto the inner tie rod assembly.

Important: The rack and pinion boot must not be twisted or out of shape in any way. An improperly shaped boot must be shaped by hand before installing the boot clamp.

4. Install the boot (3) onto the gear assembly (1) until the boot is seated in the gear assembly groove.




5. Install the boot clamp on the boot (1) using tool J 22610 (2).
6. Crimp the boot clamp (2).
7. Install the tie rod end clamp on the boot using pliers.
8. Install the jam nut to the inner tie rod assembly.
9. Install the outer tie rod.