Is changing a tie rod a "do-it-yourself" job?

[K_Oz]

My first post here, looks like a great message board.

I'd like to change a worn tie-rod on a 95 SL2. Anyone know how involved this job is?

Thanks!

[sierrap615]

depends on you skill level, from 1(oil change) to 10(complete engine overhaul and blueprint) its a 2 or 3. raise the vehicle, remove wheel. keep key in ignition so the steering doesn't lock. disconnect the outer tie-rod balljoint. normally you wouldn't use a pickle fork as it will rip the boot, but since you are replacing it anyway, go ahead. use a sharpie to mark the nut and threaded part of the inter tierod. the nut on the tie rod is a jam nut, not connected to the outer tierod, just keeps it from moving. loosen the jam nut, just enought to allow the out tie rod to be unthreaded. if the jam nut must be turned more then one time around remember it, unthread the tie rod and count how many turns it takes to come off, screw on the new tie-rod an equal number of turns. tighten the jam nut so the sharpie marks line up. connect the ball joint to the steering knuckle with a new cotter pin if needed. install wheel. the counting of turns and sharpie marks should keep the front toe alignment fairly close to correct. but you need to go and have an alignment done right away.