Tie Rod Boot: Service and Repair

Rack and Pinion Boot Replacement

Tools Required

J 22610 Keystone Clamp Pliers

Removal Procedure

1. Remove the rack and pinion outer tie rod end. Refer to Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement (Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement).




2. Remove the steering linkage inner tie rod nut (5) from the steering linkage inner tie rod.
3. Remove the steering gear boot clamp (4).
4. Cut and discard the steering gear boot clamp (2).

Important: After removing the boot, inspect the inner tie rod for evidence of corrosion or contamination. If none is evident, continue with the repair. If corrosion or contamination is evident, replace the steering gear.


5. Remove the steering gear boot (3) from the steering gear (1).

Installation Procedure




1. Apply grease to the steering linkage inner tie rod (2) and the steering gear (1) prior to installing the steering gear boot (3).




2. Install the steering gear boot (3) onto the steering linkage inner tie rod.
3. Install the new steering gear boot clamp (2) onto the steering gear boot (3).
4. Make sure the steering gear boot (3) sits on the steering gear (1) so the steering gear boot (3) is seated in the steering gear (1) assembly groove.




5. Crimp the steering gear boot clamp (2) on the steering gear boot (1) using tool J 22610 .




6. Install the steering gear boot clamp (1).
7. Install the steering linkage inner tie rod nut (2).
8. Install the rack and pinion outer tie rod end. Refer to Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement (Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement).