Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Tie Rod

There are two tie rod assemblies. Each assembly is made up of five pieces, consisting of a sleeve, two clamps, and two tie rod ends. The ends are threaded into the sleeve and secured with the clamps. Right and left hand threads are used for toe-in adjustments and steering gear centering.

Tie rod ends should be replaced when excessive up-and-down motion is present, or when excessive end play or loss of motion at the ball stud exists.

Before any service is performed, note the position of the tie rod adjuster tube, and the direction from which the bolts are installed. The tie rod adjuster tube components may be rusted. If the torque required to remove the nut from the bolt exceeds 9 Nm (80 inch lbs.) discard the nuts and bolts. Apply penetrating oil between the clamp and tube and rotate the clamps until they move freely. Install all parts, with the correct part number, in the proper position.