Inner Tie Rod?

[mikie]

I had my car up on a jack the other day and my right wheel has lots of play side to side....What do I need to fix this problem??? my garage guy told my that I need a new inner tie rod, but he didn't seem too sure.

Thanks,

Mikie

[98V70BASEBOY]

Hi Mikie,

Generally speaking, this problem is one of two items related to the steering control. The outer tie rod is more common, but fairly easy to diagnose, as you can wrap you hand around the outer tie rod where it goes into the steering knuckle, and fairly easily feel the wiggle. If no wiggle is felt here, the outer can be ruled out and the inner would be the next place to look.

Depending on your model and year, there are two different variations on the inner tie rod.

1. TRW Racks use a plate code 4 inner tie rod, that has a smaller thread diameter (14mm I believe) where it screws into the steering rack (a TRW type rack)

2. SIMI Racks use a plate code 5 inner tie rod, that has a larger thread diameter (16mm I think) at the junction with the rack. I believe these were put in cars built in Belgium, but I could be wrong.

The type 4 is more common and easier to find at your local parts store, and many stores carry the TRW made version. The type 5 is not so common, and I had to purchase mine at the dealer. It came with a boot, fasteners and my cost was $95.

If you don't already have these, get a good floor jack and stands for the job. You can buy a tool that is made to specifically remove inner tie rods, but I was able to fairly easily remove mine with a pair of channel locks, and tightening was no problem either.

Also, if you do not already own one, I would highly suggest getting a Haynes manual.

After you're done replacing, get it aligned too..

Hope this helps.

P.S. I replaced my right side one last year, and the left is next.

[mikie]

Thank you, I was stressing a little about all this (due to not understanding) but ur reply cleared everything up....thanks!

mikie