Problems changing tie rods on my '90 240sx
Problems changing tie rods on my '90 240sx
I just purchased my car a week ago, and I hit a curb and bent my driver side tie rod. I didn't want to pay a mechanic $190 in labor to fix it, so I'm doing it myself, with the help of some amateur mechanics I know. The problem is, I (of course) have rack&pinion steering, and can't seem to disconnect the tie rod from the steering gear/rack. I don't want to put too much pressure on the wrench for fear of damaging my steering box, but my friend says he had to take the entire steering box out in order to change his rods, and I don't believe that's necessary. Can anyone help me?
Tie rods aren't difficult if you know what to look for and do. Are you planning on replacing the ends as well?
rod removal:locate the hexed part of the tie rod. You can rotate it about from there. Put a marker on the rod end and the rod itself so you can count how many turns you've taken to get the rod off. You'll find out why you do this at the end.
2. remove the dust boot, should have a wire tie at the rack (now would be a good time to replace these as well).3. you'll see a small metal lock thing at the part where the inner meets the rack. you can pry that part off with a screwdriver and a mallet.4. take a wrench and undo the obvious part of the rod.5. reverse directions for installnote: when putting the inner rod into the end, count how many rotations you put on it. You're looking to put the number of rotations it took to get the old rod off to put the new one on so you get as close to your original alignment as you can.
If your inner tie rod is really bent, you may have to pop the tie rod end out to get this job done.
rod removal:locate the hexed part of the tie rod. You can rotate it about from there. Put a marker on the rod end and the rod itself so you can count how many turns you've taken to get the rod off. You'll find out why you do this at the end.
2. remove the dust boot, should have a wire tie at the rack (now would be a good time to replace these as well).3. you'll see a small metal lock thing at the part where the inner meets the rack. you can pry that part off with a screwdriver and a mallet.4. take a wrench and undo the obvious part of the rod.5. reverse directions for installnote: when putting the inner rod into the end, count how many rotations you put on it. You're looking to put the number of rotations it took to get the old rod off to put the new one on so you get as close to your original alignment as you can.
If your inner tie rod is really bent, you may have to pop the tie rod end out to get this job done.