TIE-ROD REPLACEMENT ???

[MIDNIGHT RIDER]

I have my complete steering rod system ordered and on the way.

For a driveway mechanic's replacement job, do I need a special tool to get the old stuff off my truck ??

Or, can I get by with knocking them loose with a hammer ??

I intend to get the old out and assemble the new to the same length.

What is a good accurate measurement point to use ??

Will the Alemites be centered, such that I can measure from them ??

Any advice will be appreciated.

It has been years since I have done this and I am a little rusty.

Thanks.

 

[RedTruck]

A hammer is really going to be a PITA. At the very least you need a pickle fork. The best would be a ball joint puller. The pickle fork tends to wreck your old rubber boots, that's why a ball joint puller is the best in my opinion.

My advice for alignment would be to get it as close as you can to original, then drive it to a good reputable alignment shop (not as easy to find as one thinks!!) and have them align it.

Paul

 

[Agnem]

Count the turns when you take the old one off, and screw the new one on the same number of turns. Hopefully replace kind with kind (brand with brand).

 

[MIDNIGHT RIDER]

The best would be a ball joint puller.
The pickle fork tends to wreck your old rubber boots, that's why a ball joint puller is the best in my opinion.
Paul

Could someone post a picture of the ball-joint puller tool that I will need for this operation ??

Thanks.

 

[forcefed]

If you getting all new front steering joints they should come with new boots. I did my front suspension month or so ago and just used a pickle fork. Quick and cheap to buy. About the alignment just take it and get it aligned. Cheaper than replacing tires.!!

 

[Exekiel69]

Could someone post a picture of the ball-joint puller tool that I will need for this operation ??

Thanks.

I have one like this one, it works just fine but some times You want one with more pieces.