The Unofficial "Ask a Stupid Question" Thread

[CDsDontBurn]

tamper proof clamp

but I personally just hack them off

So you admit to tampering with them?

 

[CDsDontBurn]

This is gonna be a really stupid question, but, can the inner tie rods be replaced? I can't find the procedure in the Haynes manual. without looking into it I purchased both inner and out tie rods when I was on Rockauto because they were super affordable and it would only increase shipping by $1.86 so I figured hey why not, my steering is pretty loose and it needs to be done. But its not obvious if it is replaceable. I know I need the special tool but I can rent that for free from Part Source.

You know, I've actually got the same question, lol.

I've taken off the boot, and that's about as far as I got. I'm not sure how it comes off beyond that. I see that there's a lock ring, but I don't think that's part of the inner arm as the new inner arm doesn't have that bit.

 

[MadMikeyL]

It just unscrews out of the rack. Just get a big pair of channel locks or vice grip or adjustable wrench and it spins right off, then the new one spins back on.

 

[Kenz]

I found that some of the aftermarket inner tierod ends have a dowel pin that gets tapped in after install. Some like the OE Motorcraft don't have it, so Loctite is probably a good idea on them.

Here is one that has it, guess some have two.


Also TRW inner tire rods are on clearance at RA for $9.16... Good price for the OEM part, I recently paid 30 something for a Motorcraft

 

[Kidd-7]

I always locktite even with the pin.
For removal turn the rack so there’s just enough of the nut showing as to not stress the rack itself, then crank on it to break it loose.
Once broken loose pop the ball joint from the spindle and pull both inner and outer off, then you can measure for reassembly. Reuse the bellows, aftermarket ones suck.

 

[Jae 'Bird]

I found that some of the aftermarket inner tierod ends have a dowel pin that gets tapped in after install. Some like the OE Motorcraft don't have it, so Loctite is probably a good idea on them.

Here is one that has it, guess some have two.
View attachment 12002

Also TRW inner tire rods are on clearance at RA for $9.16... Good price for the OEM part, I recently paid 30 something for a Motorcraft

I got mevotech ones and they seem to be quite good, they have the pins as well but I still plan to use locktite so there is no chance I lose my steering.