Tie Rod End Ball Joint Breakaway Torque Check
TIE ROD END BALL JOINT BREAKAWAY TORQUE CHECKRequired Special Tools:
^ MB990326: Preload Socket
^ MB991897: Ball Joint Remover
CAUTION:
^ Do not remove the nut from ball joint. Loosen it and use special tool MB991897 to avoid possible damage to ball joint threads.
^ Hang special tool MB991897 with rope or wire to prevent them from falling.
1. Install the special tool MB991897 as shown in the figure.
2. Turn the bolt and knob as necessary to make the jaws of special tool MB991897 parallel, tighten the bolt by hand and confirm that the jaws are still parallel.
NOTE: When adjusting the jaws in parallel, make sure the knob is in the position shown in the figure.
3. Tighten the bolt with a wrench to disconnect the tie rod end.
4. Move the ball joint stud several times and install the nut on the stud. Measure the ball joint breakaway torque with special tool MB990326.
Standard value: 0.5 - 2.5 Nm (4.4 - 22.1 inch lbs.)
5. If the breakaway torque exceeds the standard value, replace the tie rod end.
6. If the breakaway torque is under the standard value, check the ball joint for end play or ratcheting. If no end play or ratcheting, the ball joint can be re-used.
7. Tighten the nut to the specified torque and install a new cotter pin.
Tightening torque: 29 ± 4 Nm (21 ± 4 ft. lbs.)