Tie Rod: Service and Repair

Removing and installing tie rod
Tools








Tools






Removing tie rod

1. Remove wheel.





2. For easier removal of the outer tie rod end, swivel the relevant wheel carrier so that the tie rod extends fully. Remove the outer tie rod joints with the press-out tool T10187. When pressing off, screw lock nut on flush (protects the ball joint thread).
3. Right tie rod: Remove heat shield near joint boot of right tie rod.





4. Remove small clamp -arrow- of joint boot using assembly tool for spring-band clamps NR.72.





5. Cut open and remove large clamp -arrow- of joint boot using a pair of side cutters.





6. Carefully pull the joint boot -see figure- outwards until the axial joint is accessible.





7. Disassemble axial joint -arrow- from the steering rack using open-jawed wrench insert a/f 38 NR.95-2 for torque wrench and remove the complete tie rod.

Installing tie rod


Note:
^ Install in reverse order.
^ The tie rods are delivered preset as an assembly (tie rod/tie rod joint).
^ If the joint boot is to be used again, before installing inspect for wear (cracks, slits) and check that sealing surfaces are clean.
^ Identify position of tie rod joint on the (pre-) set tie rod and, in order to fit the joint boots and the small clamp, remove/fit lock nut and tie rod joint.





^ During installation, insert new sealing rings -arrow- on the steering gear. Take care not to damage the sealing ring when fitting the joint boot.
^ Carry out a close visual inspection of all parts.
^ When fitting the ball joints, ensure that the bevel pinions are clean! Remove dirt or grease on bevel pinions, e.g. with a lint-free cloth. Do not use cleaning agent/solvent.
^ Observe correct tightening torques for steering.
^ Calibrate steering angle sensor.

Ensure that no damage (scoring or similar damage) is caused to the steering rack.
Fit joint boot (not twisted) and secure with new clamps -see figure-.





The arrow denotes the clamp lug .





When fitting the large clamps, it is essential to observe the following installation position (right/left). The clamps must be fitted in the correct position. Place the pliers for lug hose clamp NR.74 on the clamping washer lug and lightly clamp. It should still be possible to easily turn the clamps. Check the position of the clamp once more, correcting if necessary, and then compress the clamp lug fully.





The clamp of the left joint boot must be clamped on the steering gear so that the clamp lug -arrow- is in line with the steering shaft! Failure to observe this can lead to constrictions in the area of the supply and return lines.





The clamp of the right joint boot must be clamped on the steering gear so that the clamp lug -arrow- points horizontally with the front axle carrier (suspension subframe) in the direction of travel. Failure to observe this can lead to constrictions in the area of the heat shield.
Check vehicle toe and adjust' if necessary .
Observe correct tightening torques.