Tie Rod: Service and Repair
Removing and installing tie rod
Removal
1. Raise vehicle and remove the relevant front wheel.
2. For easier removal of the outer tie rod end, swivel the relevant wheel carrier so that the tie rod extends fully. Remove outer tie rod ends with press-out tool T10187. When pressing out, screw fastening nut on flush (protects ball joint thread). The tightening torque for the fastening nut to install the tie rod end is 90 Nm (67 ft. lbs.).
3. Right tie rod: Remove heat shield near joint boot of right tie rod.
4. Remove -small clamp (arrow)- of joint boot using assembly tool for spring-band clamps 72 oder 73.
5. Cut open and remove -large clamp (arrow)- of joint boot using a pair of side cutters.
6. Carefully pull the joint boot- outwards until the axial joint is accessible.
7. Disassemble -axial joint (arrow)- from the steering rack using Open jawed wrench insert SW 38 (95-2) for torque wrench and remove the complete tie rod. The tightening torque for fastening the axial joint to the steering rack is 100 Nm + 10° turn.
Installation
Note!
^ Install in reverse order.
^ The tie rods are preset on delivery as an assembly (tie rod/tie rod end).
^ If the joint boot is to be used again, before installing inspect for wear (cracks, slits) and check that sealing surfaces are clean.
^ Identify position of tie rod end on the (prey set tie rod and, in order to fit the joint boots and the small clamp, remove/fit lock nut and tie rod end.
^ During installation, insert new -sealing rings (arrow)- on the steering gear. Take care not to damage the sealing ring when fitting the joint boot.
^ Carry out a close visual inspection of all parts.
^ When fitting the ball joints, ensure that the bevel pinions are clean! Remove dirt or grease on bevel pinions, e.g. with a lint-free cloth. Do not use cleaning agent/solvent.
^ Use correct tightening torques.
^ Calibrate steering-angle sensor.
^ Ensure that no damage (scoring or similar damage) is caused to the steering rack.
^ Fit joint boot (not twisted) and secure with -new clamps-.
^ The arrow denotes the clamp lug.
^ When fitting the large clamps, it is essential to observe the following installation position (right/left). The clamps must be fitted in the correct position. Place the clamp pliers 74 on the clamp lug and lightly clamp. It should still be possible to easily turn the clamps. Check the position of the clamp once more, correcting if necessary, and then compress the clamp lug fully.
^ The clamp of the left joint boot must be clamped on the steering gear so that the clamp lug -arrow is in line with the steering shaft! Failure to observe this can lead to constrictions in the area of the supply and return lines.
^ The clamp of the right joint boot must be clamped on the steering gear so that the clamp lug -arrow points horizontally at the front axle carrier (suspension subframe) in the direction of travel. Failure to observe this can lead to constrictions in the area of the heat shield.
^ Check vehicle toe and adjust if necessary. Tightening torque 70 Nm (52 ft. lbs.) (locknut on tie rod).