jdonnell

iTrader: (1)

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......

Molotovman

iTrader: (49)

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.

eage8

iTrader: (9)

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

clokker

iTrader: (2)

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.

GrossPolluter

iTrader: (1)

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

jdonnell

iTrader: (1)

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.

pfsantos

iTrader: (1)

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.

jdonnell

iTrader: (1)

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

scott01hickey

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.

eage8

iTrader: (9)

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.