Tie Rod Replacement near Crystal Lake, Illinois

On cars or trucks with a steering gearbox, the vehicle will be lifted, and the wheel in question will be removed before turning the steering wheel the complete other direction. Once inner or outer tie rod is exposed, the castle nut will be removed. The tie rod can then be taken off. A wheel alignment will be necessary once the new one is in place. Cars with steering racks are slightly different. The vehicle is raised and stripped of the wheel, outer tie rod, steering rack and inner tie rod dust boot. A special tool is needed to remove the inner tie rod. Other parts may also need to be removed to gain access.

After removing the steering rack dust boots, the presence of power steering fluid could indicate a failed seal, and replacement of the steering rack will be recommended.

Only someone with a lot of suspension and steering system knowledge should attempt this repair. It's usually best left to professional repair shops.