already searched... how do i remove tie rods (not TRE)

[ahaiceman]

anyone have a write up on how to remove the tie rods and not just the ends?

[X - 1 _ r a c e r]

1. Jack up car, pull wheel (duh)
2. Pull plastic tabs right behind spring, and 10mm nut right next to boot to remove plastic shroud (tie rod goes through).
3. Remove TRE retainer bolt and pinch bolt.
4. Pull boot small-end clamp.
5. Pull boot big-end clamp (way deep in there, use a long small-tip screwdriver).
6. Pull boot towards you to TRE.
7. Use two BIG crescent wrenches, one to hold the steering rod, other to loosen the big knuckle (1.5"/38mm).
8. Remove tie rod and measure it's EXACT length; I used a vernier caliper from the adjuster locknut to the center of the TRE. NOTE; no matter how exact you get this, you will need a prompt alignment!
9. Set new tie rod length and install. The hardest part by far is reinstalling the boot's big-end clamp waaaay deep in there, but take the time to do it right as water contamination in the boot will ruin the tie rod and possibly the rack.

Tightening torque on big knuckle spec is 74ft/lbs, don't ask me how to get that with crescent wrench. If you want to do it "proper" get a 1.5" crowfoot from Grainger (McMaster does not carry, nor do local shops).

[ahaiceman]