Hi, either the search here is bad or no one else has posed this question. I replaced my outer tie rod the other day because i figured thats where my side to side axial play was coming from (05 Grand Prix GT, 105k miles, original tie rod ends). Get it all put back together and no change on the drivers side. I can still here a clunk when I wiggle the tire at 3 and 9. Passenger side has no play in any direction. I went to pull off the new tie rod end today, but could not get it to seperate from the nuckle even when I tried to hammer it out. I'll be renting a puller tomorrow to pop it out. I got a new inner tie rod and the tie rod removal tool today but was wondering if the steering rack has to be held with a rench when the tie rod is unscrewed? Also, what should the new inner tie rod be torqued to once installed?
I fear that my bearing may be the problem but i thought if it was bad I would have play in more than just side to side. When i turn the wheel lock to lock I hear a click/snap either from the wheel hub area or the steering rack, and it is followed by my ABS/traction lights coming on. I can straighten the wheel and restart the car and they go out until I make a sharp turn or hit a big pot hole/bump. I was thinking maybe the tie rod is causing the tire to "snap" which throws off the wheel speed sensor briefly for whatever reason. Its hard to tell if the movement is coming from the inner tie rod, it feels like its coming from the front side of the axle even though there is nothing tied to the front of the nuckle. Could this be bearing wearing out? It doesnt make any moaning/whirring noise either. I just hate to start throwing expensive parts at it to cure it. I've already thrown my alignment off with the new tierod and If i have to get one done i may as well replace the inner as well. Figured I'd take it in to LeShwab tomorrow after work and have them do a free suspension check to maybe pinpoint it for me but for all i know they are guessing as well. Let me know what you think, thanks!