My 90 convertible is over 200K in mileage and I want to replace the inner tie-rods. I read Wankle7's write-up (great!) but I was a little confused. I plan to rent one of those flashlight looking tie-rod tools with the adapters, but I was wondering what techniques / tips are out there for holding the shaft with teeth stationary while you loosen the inner tie-rod? Wankle7 used vise grips but I wondered what others have tried?? Im afraid to gall the teeth. Thanks......

 

The steering lock should prevent it from moving. They're not always in super tight either, normally the is a washer or "lock" you bend over to hold the ITR from loosening back up.
When I say normally, I mean most vehicles. I gave not changed one on an FC before.

 

I changed mine with an adjustable wrench... it worked completely fine.

 

I've depowered four FC racks and never seen the lock washer.
It's weird because I'd expect one too, but nope.

Not sure if the FSM shows one or not.

 

I did it a few years ago on my car. the wrenches I had were not thin enough, so I bought a cheap wrench set from harbor freight and grinded the wrench thinner until it barely fit.

I thought I remembered tabs that you fold over to lock it in place after, but its been so long

 

Thanks for the inputs. So I take it you do not have to prevent the steering rack with teeth in it from moving while breaking loose the inner tie-rod. Ok, that is good.

 

Good to hear you're planning to rent an inner tie rod tool instead of using a wrench. It makes the job much easier. I know because I've done it both ways. And, not sure if its the same in ur area, but some car parts places give u ur money back once u return the tool. On the FC there's typically no washer or locknut. The tool will also allow u to torque the tie rod to spec. If it's the type that looks like a crazy deep socket with "inserts". Do the outer tie rods too if u haven't in a while...and don't forget an alignment after.

 

I do plan to replace both inner and outer tie-rods. And our Autozone does have tool rentals with a deposit to return.

 

I would highly recommend using some Loctite on the threads when reinstalling the inner tie-rod, especially if there are no tabs to lock it in place. I'm fairly certain if you purchase a quality part like moog it will come with a small bottle in the package.

 

they have odd little lock pins that you're supposed to hammer in with a punch to keep them from backing out... I'm not sure how well that works though.