|
You can get a "pickle fork" for like $7.99 at an autoparts store, (or a good one for a bit more at Sears).
It's simply a wedge-shaped fork that forces the tie rod end out of it's hole in the spindle. Mine have never failed me. There can be some damage to the tie rod end rubber boot, but they're only $10 each anyway, and it'll last for years even if you do cut the rubber.
Couple whacks with a 2-lb hammer, and they'll pop right out. Now, I HAVE had very tough times removing the jam nut from the INNER tie rod end. One car I did I needed to cut the nuts off, they were rusted so badly to the tie rod shaft.
Also, if you're replacing inners, a small pipe wrench will be quite handy. And watch the locking washer at the inner end- it can be tough to straighten out properly- it's bent over to lock the tie rod from turning vs. the rack.
Good luck!
--
Rob Bareiss, New London CT ::: '87 244DL/M47- 225K, 88 744GLE- 209K, 91 244 183K. Also responsible for the care and feeding of: 88 745GLE, 229K, 88 244GL, 146K, 87 244DL, 235K, 88 245DL, 236K
|