Tie Rod Boot: Service and Repair

Rack and Pinion Boot Replacement - On Vehicle

Tools Required

J22610 Keystone Clamp Pliers

Removal Procedure

1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle.
2. Remove the front wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation (4 Lug Wheel) Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation (5 Lug Wheel).




3. Remove the outer tie rod end. Refer to Rack and Pinion Outer Tie Rod End Replacement.
4. Remove the outer to inner tie rod jam nut and discard.
5. Remove the outer steering gear boot spring clamp.
6. Using cutters, cut the inner steering gear boot clamp, remove and discard.




7. Disengage the steering gear boot from the steering gear and remove over the inner tie rod.
8. Inspect the sealing surfaces and threaded shaft portion of the steering gear and inner tie rod. The surfaces must be clean and free of debris.

Installation Procedure

1. Install a new clamp on the inner portion of the steering gear boot.




2. Apply grease from the service kit to the indicated locations.

Important: The boot must seat in the groove in the steering gear.

3. Install the boot over the inner tie rod onto the steering gear.
4. Using the J 22610, crimp the inner boot clamp on the steering gear housing.
5. Install the small spring clamp on the outer portion of the inner tie rod end.
6. Install a new outer to inner tie rod jam nut.




7. Install the outer tie rod end. Refer to Rack and Pinion Outer Tie Rod End Replacement.
8. Install the wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation (4 Lug Wheel) Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation (5 Lug Wheel).
9. Set the toe. Refer to Front Toe Adjustment.