Tie Rod End: Testing and Inspection

This check can be performed with the steering gear installed on vehicle or with steering gear on a bench. Disconnect tie rod end from spindle, if gear is installed on vehicle. Place hook end of spring scale through hole in threaded area of ball joint stud. The effort to move the tie rod as measured on the spring scale, should be 2 to 10 lbs. If effort exceeds specifications, tie rod and ball socket assembly must be replaced.