Tie Rod End: Testing and Inspection

TIE ROD END BALL JOINT BREAKAWAY TORQUE CHECK

Required Special Tools:

- MB990326: Preload Socket
- MB991897: Ball Joint Remover





1.
CAUTION:

- Do not remove the nut from ball joint. Loosen it and use special tool MB991897 to avoid possible damage to the ball joint threads.
- Hang special tool MB991897 with a cord to prevent it from falling.

Install 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. Using special tool MB990326, measure the ball joint breakaway torque.
Standard value: 0.5 - 3.5Nm (4.4 - 31.0 in-lb)
5. If the breakaway torque exceeds the standard value, replace the tie rod end assembly (Refer to Power Steering Gear Box and Linkage Disassembly and Reassembly).
6. If the breakaway torque is under the standard value, check the ball joint for end play or ratcheting. If there is no end play or ratcheting, the ball joint can be re-used.
7.
CAUTION:
Always use a new ball joint nut, as it is a jam nut.

Install the tie rod end to the knuckle, then tighten a new jam nut to the specified torque.
Tightening torque: 52± 2Nm (38± 1 ft-lb)