Inner Tie Rod: Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Mercury Mountaineer and 2005 Ford Explorer. 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).
  
  Fig 1: Installing Inner Tie-Rod Using Special Tool
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: Apply steering gear grease to the steering gear bellows groove in the inner tie-rod.

NOTE: Make sure the steering gear bellows is positioned correctly over the steering gear housing bead and the groove in the inner tie-rod.

NOTE: Make sure the steering gear bellows is not twisted and the vent tube (if equipped) is securely inserted into the vent nipple of the steering gear bellows.

Install the steering gear bellows.
Using the special tool, install a new inner bellows clamp.

NOTE: Make sure the end of the steering gear bellows is positioned between the 2 grooves on the inner tie-rod or an internal leak can result.

Install a new outer bellows clamp.
Thread the tie-rod end jam nut onto the inner tie-rod.

NOTE: Install the tie-rod end the same number of turns as recorded during the removal.

Install the tie-rod end to the inner tie-rod.
Tighten the tie-rod end jam nut.
- Tighten to 80 Nm (59 lb-ft).
Position the tie-rod end to the wheel knuckle and install a new tie-rod end nut.
- Tighten to 70 Nm (52 lb-ft).
Check and, if necessary, align the front end. For additional information, refer to SUSPENSION SYSTEM-GENERAL INFORMATION .