Tie Rod End - Service Tips

91ford23

Article No. 91-17-4
08/21/91


TIE RODS - OUTER ENDS - SERVICE TIPS


FORD: 1986-91 TAURUS

LINCOLN-MERCURY: 1986-91 SABLE 1988-91 CONTINENTAL


ISSUE: In some cases the outer tie rod ends are being replaced needlessly when they are in good condition. Unlike a conventional outer tie rod end or ball joint, the rubber socket outer tie rod ends DO NOT...

^ Have a grease fitting or seal

^ Require lubrication

^ Allow angular movement in either direction when only hand pressure is applied.

ACTION: If tie rod service is performed, use the following procedure to check the rubber design outer tie rod end.


NOTE: IT IS NORMAL FOR THE RUBBER SOCKET TO BE TILTED TO ONE SIDE AND NOT BE PERPENDICULAR TO THE KNUCKLE. THIS CONDITION DOES NOT AFFECT DURABILITY, NOISE, STEERING PERFORMANCE OR ALIGNMENT.

TIE ROD END CHECKING PROCEDURE

1. Be sure the vehicle wheels are in the straight ahead position and the steering gear is on center location.


2. Remove the outer tie rod end from the knuckle.

3. Install two nuts on the ball stud and tighten them to lock against each other.

4. Using a torque wrench, measure the torque required to rotate the stud 40~ in either direction. If this torque measurement is below 20 lb.ft., the rubber socket is worn and should be replaced.

NOTE: ALL OUTER TIE ROD ENDS WHICH FAIL THE CHECKING PROCEDURE AND HAVE ACCUMULATED 30,000 MILES OR MORE ARE TO BE SHIPPED TO: FORD MOTOR COMPANY, 20000 ROTUNDA DRIVE, ROOM 3169, BUILDING 5, (ATTN JOHN GUTTENBERGER), DEARBORN, MICHIGAN 48124.

Please include vehicle year, model, VIN number and mileage information.

OTHER APPLICABLE ARTICLES: NONE
WARRANTY STATUS: INFORMATION ONLY
OASIS CODES: 303000, 304000