Inner Tie Rod: Installation
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Mercury Montego, 2005 Ford Freestyle, and 2005 Ford Five Hundred. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Using the special tool, install the inner tie-rod.
- Tighten to 100 Nm (74 lb-ft).
- Position the inner tie-rod bellows clamp and install the bellows.
- Using the special tool, install the inner bellows clamp.
- Install the outer bellows clamp.
- Thread the tie-rod end jam nut onto the inner tie-rod.
- Install the outer tie-rod to the inner tie-rod.
- Install the tie-rod end nut.
- Tighten to 90 Nm (66 lb-ft).
- Tighten the tie-rod end jam nut.
- Tighten to 80 Nm (59 lb-ft).
- Check and, if necessary, adjust the front toe. For additional information, refer to SUSPENSION SYSTEM-GENERAL INFORMATION .
CAUTION:
Thoroughly remove any abrasive material. This material is extremely harmful to the steering gear.
NOTE:
Apply steering gear grease to the steering gear bellows grooves in the inner tie-rod.
NOTE:
Make sure the steering gear bellows is positioned correctly over the steering gear housing bead and the grooves in the inner tie-rod.
NOTE:
Make sure the steering gear bellows is not twisted and the breather tube (if equipped) is securely inserted into the breather nipple of the steering gear bellows.
NOTE:
Make sure that the end of the steering gear bellows is positioned between the 2 grooves on the inner tie-rod or an internal leak may result.
NOTE:
Install the outer tie-rod the same number of turns recorded during removal.
NOTE:
The hex holding feature can be used to prevent turning of the stud while installing the nut.