The tie rods on a vehicle do exactly what their title describes; they are rods that tie the steering rack to the steering knuckle. The rod has two ball joints on each end. These ball joints wear over time creating free-play in the steering, which can lead to tire wear and an undesirable steering feel. The rubber boots protecting the ball joints on the tie rod ends also can get damaged, rip and dry out over the years allowing the grease inside to escape and causing the joint to fail. You can replace the inner and outer separately. Just be sure to have your vehicle aligned once complete. To inspect, jack up the front of your vehicle and wiggle the wheel in both directions of the steering axis. Take note of any free-play. If free-play is felt, repeat the wiggle test while holding the outer tie rod. If no free-play is felt in the outer tie rod end locate the inner tie rod and repeat the wiggle test.
Raise and support the front of the vehicle on jack stands. See our tech article on jacking up your vehicle.
Remove the front wheel from the side of the vehicle you are replacing the tie rod on.
Read the Full Article: [ Ссылка ]
Time: 3 hours
Tab: $15 to $100
Tools: 22mm, 17mm, 13mm wrench :[ Ссылка ], 5mm Allen :[ Ссылка ]
Applicable Models: Mercedes-Benz W124 (1986-95) :[ Ссылка ]
Parts Required: Tie rods :[ Ссылка ]
Hot Tip: Let soak overnight with penetrating oil
Performance Gain: Proper steering feel
Complementary Modification: Have vehicle professionally aligned
