Automotive DIY: Changing a Tie Rod End
If the tie rod is the link of the front wheels to your vehicle's
steering gear, then the tie rod end is the a part of that link that
provides its mounting point to the actual wheel. Get it? Well, if you do
and you recognize how important it is to your steering system, you
would realize that it's not a smart decision to neglect this part when
it's already worn out. Aside from making driving awfully difficult, it
could also lead to other steering problems-which could potentially
jeopardize your safety whenever you're on the road. To fix this, we
suggest you make the necessary replacement as soon as you can. Now, if
you want to do this task on your own, the easy-to-follow steps below
would definitely help.
Difficulty level: Moderate
Here are the tools that you will need:
- Car jack
- Jack stands
- Wrench
- Lug nut removal tool
- New tie rod end
Step 1:
You will need to access the wheel bay. To be able to do that, you've
got to lift your vehicle with a car jack and let it rest on jack stands.
Step 2: Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel using the lug nut removal tool. After this, you can remove the wheel from the car.
Step 3: Locate the tie rod. You'll find a horizontal nut there that keeps the tie rod end on the back of the brake disc-remove it.
Step 4: Use the mallet to tap the vertical section of the tie rod. This would loosen it from the wheel.
*Note: Ask a friend to hold the steering wheel while you do this to prevent the wheel from turning.
Step 5: Turn the tie rod end until it comes off the shaft. Count how many turns it took.
Step 6: Place the new tie rod end at the base of the rod. Screw it on with one complete turn.
*Note: The tie rod end's short vertical portion should be pointing upward once you're done.
Step 7: Remember the x turns you made in step 5? Tighten the tie rod end by turning it x times.
Step 8: Put the tie rod end's vertical portion into the hole behind the wheel. Tighten the nut over it.