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.

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

Torque: 77 lb.ft (105 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 Position the steering gear heat shield and install the retainers.
Torque: 71 lb.in (8 Nm)

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If equipped. Install the dual under body shields and the retainers.

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If equipped. Install the under body shield 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
Connect the battery ground cable. Refer to: BATTERY DISCONNECT AND CONNECT .