Tie Rod: Installation

NOTE: Place the steering gear at the center position and hold the steering gear rack while loosening or tightening the inner tie rod. Use an appropriate-sized wrench on the flat/teeth of the rack to resist rotation and to prevent damage during removal of the inner tie rod.

NOTE: An assistant will be needed to hold the steering gear rack on the LH side when servicing the RH inner tie rod.

NOTE: Crowfoot-style inner tie-rod tool shown.

Remove the tie rod. Use the General Equipment: Tie Rod Remover and Installer

Torque: 89 lb.ft (120 Nm)

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Apply the specified grease to the steering gear-to-bellows boot mating surface and bellows boot groove on the inner tie-rod.
Material: Motorcraft® Premium Long-Life Grease / XG-1-E1 (ESA-M1C75-B)

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

Install the new steering gear bellows boot and new clamps. Use the General Equipment: Boot Clamp Pliers

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Thread the tie rod end jam nut onto the tie rod.

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If equipped. Install the underbody shield and the retainers.

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If equipped. Install the underbody air duct and the retainers.

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If equipped. Install the skid plate and the retainers.

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Install the tie rod end. Refer to: Tie Rod End .
Install the wheel and tire. Refer to: Wheel and Tire .
Check and if necessary adjust front toe. Refer to: Front Toe Adjustment .