Tie Rod Inspection

1. Remove the steering gear and linkage. (See STEERING GEAR AND LINKAGE REMOVAL/INSTALLATION ).
2. Remove the tie rod. (See STEERING GEAR AND LINKAGE DISASSEMBLY ).
3. Inspect for bending and damage.
   • If there is any malfunction, replace the tie rod. (See STEERING GEAR AND LINKAGE ASSEMBLY ).
4. Inspect for excessive play.
   • If there is any malfunction, replace the tie rod. (See STEERING GEAR AND LINKAGE ASSEMBLY ).
5. Swing the tie rod 10 times.
6. Measure the swing torque of the tie rod using a pull scale.

Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.

Tie rod swing torque 

0.4-4.0 N.m {4.1-40 kgf.cm, 3.6-35 in.lbf} [Pull scale reading: 2.5-25.0 N {0.3-2.5 kgf, 0.6-5.6 lbf}]

• If not within the specification, replace the tie rod. (See STEERING GEAR AND LINKAGE ASSEMBLY ).