Replacing inner tie rod

[fivefan]

It looks like my problem is the drivers side inner tie rod. Are these much trouble to replace? Any tips or tricks I need to know before I get started?
1998 Regal.
Thanks

Dan

[BNaylor]

The inner is a PITA DIY. Instead of wasting time and possibly money trying to the replace the inner tie rod you might consider just getting a remanufactured rack and pinion unit. I do not believe it is a good idea doing the work while the rack and pinion is installed in the car but you never know.

You could try it but I would recommend getting a GM service manual which will cover access, how to remove the protective boot and how it connects to the rack and any staking procedure if necessary.

[Master01]

If you can afford it take it to a mechanic so when they change it they can align the car back up, so it dosent wear your tires.

[rhandwor]

They have a flat spot on the shaft which you can use a large open end or crescent to hold it steady. This is critical as if it is turned you will have to buy a rebuilt unit. Instructions come with the inner tie rod. Check how they are held in place a pin or another way. You need a long socket as the rod is fairly long. Available at a parts store. They also have a torque spec.You can use two open ends but takes longer. Measure the number of threads left on the outer tie rod before you loosen the lock nut. Disconnect the outer tie rod and start the process. I have a tie rod bar and I check the toe in when I'm done. Mark it before you start and put it back the same way.
If you aren't careful you could easily be a 1 inch out. This puts tremendous stress on all parts. I would take two one quart oil jugs. This is for height and use a tape measure across the front of the tires center tread write this down. and when done put it back the same.
It isn't really hard but it might worry you the first time. Also inspect it before you go to the parts store as if any seals are leaking you need a rebuilt unit.

[marksatterfield]

I'd agree, if you have an inner tie rod to replace, you should replace the rack -- at least on a rear wheel drive vehicle. I've not replace it on a front wheel drive.

- The rack with the new inner tie rods & rubbers cost $100. One inner tie rod cost $25. So, it will definitely be more expensive. This is the only negative I can think of.
+ The car still needs a front end alignment, regardless of how much is replaced -- $60-$80.
+ If one is starting to go, the other is likely near it's own end of life.
+ Replacing the rack forces the replacement of fluid. Fluid needs to be changed anyway.
+ Replacing the rack is relatively straight forward. Replacing the inner tie rod end requires some hammering (at least on my vehicle).

--Mark

http://www.marksatterfield.com

[BNaylor]

Originally Posted by marksatterfield

I'd agree, if you have an inner tie rod to replace, you should replace the rack -- at least on a rear wheel drive vehicle. I've not replace it on a front wheel drive.

- The rack with the new inner tie rods & rubbers cost $100. One inner tie rod cost $25. So, it will definitely be more expensive. This is the only negative I can think of.
+ The car still needs a front end alignment, regardless of how much is replaced -- $60-$80.
+ If one is starting to go, the other is likely near it's own end of life.
+ Replacing the rack forces the replacement of fluid. Fluid needs to be changed anyway.
+ Replacing the rack is relatively straight forward. Replacing the inner tie rod end requires some hammering (at least on my vehicle).

--Mark

http://www.marksatterfield.com

Thanks for contributing to the forum, however, please check the date and do not resurrect old threads. This one goes back a few years so it has been closed. Please refer to the guidelines below.


Old Thread Guidelines