“How to remove inner tie rod without tool”, may seem difficult at first.
But removing the inner tie rod without a tool is a simpler process than most people think. This hassle-free process of inner tie rod removal is super easy with a few simple steps.
However, it will assist you in removing inner tie rods like a pro without any special tools.
The condition of the inner tie rod directly affects your vehicle’s ability to steer properly. It is a vital part of the steering mechanism.
If it is faulty in any way, then you need to replace it with a new one to avoid future unfortunate circumstances.
This article gives you a simple, easy-to-follow guide on how to easily remove inner tie rods without tools.
How to Remove Inner Tie Rod Without Tool: 4 Steps Method
Step 1: Locating the Inner Tie Rod
Firstly, you must carefully loosen the wheel’s lug nuts. Then elevate your car with a jack stand and remove the wheel completely.
This allows you to locate and access the inner tie rod properly. To locate the inner tie rod, you will first have to locate the outer tie rod end.
Locate the shaft connected to the steering knuckle, which is the outer tie rod of your vehicle. Trace from the end of the outer tie rod.
The end of the outer tie rod is the beginning of the inner tie rod.
Step 2: Removing the outer tie rod
The rack-and-pinion steering system is designed in such a way that the outer tie rod comes before the inner tie rod. This means that it must be taken off first.
With a wrench, loosen the nut that holds the outer and inner tie rods.
Use the other side of the wrench to loosen the nut that connects the beginning of the tie rod to the vehicle’s steering knuckle. Take off the nut.
Hit the eye of the joint with a hammer, and it will separate from the steering knuckle. Twist counterclockwise to remove the outer tie rod.
(Note: Count how many turns it takes before the outer rod is completely off. Tighten the replacement with the same number of turns to maintain your alignment)
Step 3: Removing the boot
Hold the inner tie rod in place and twist off the nut. You will need to remove this nut completely, so it does not get in the way when you want to remove the boot.
Now it’s time to remove the boot. Use a pair of nose pliers to remove the clamp that holds the boot. Pinch the clamp and then slide it all the way off.
There is a second clamp on the backside of the boot. This clamp holds the boot in place there. This clamp must also be removed.
Use a screwdriver to take it off. Insert the pick under the clamp and turn it up to break it. Next, carefully take out the rod that connects the two boots.
Remember to note which side of the rod faces the driving seat so you can place it back the same way. Slide the boot off and the clamp too.
Step 4: Removing the inner rod tie
There should be a small pin that keeps the rod from turning. Pry the pin out with a pick or screwdriver. Keep your harmer handy because the screwdriver might need a few hits.
With the pin gone, you can remove the inner tie rod end. Twist counterclockwise until the inner tie rod is completely off.
What are Inner and Outer Tie Rods?
The rack and pinion system and the steering gearbox system both possess inner and outer tie rods.
The inner and outer tie rods are in control of your vehicle’s wheels. They are crucial to the steering of the vehicle.
This is because they attach the steering knuckle of your wheel to its steering rack.
The inner tie rod of the vehicle connects to the steering rack. But the outer tie rod connects to the vehicle’s wheel spindle or steering knuckle.
Outer tie rods tend to damage faster than inner tie rods.
Inner & Outer Tie Rods Replacement Cost
The average price of tie rod replacement is around $170 to $480. This includes the price for the parts and the labor.
The price varies depending on your vehicle. Inner tie rods tend to be a bit more expensive than outer tie rods.
The price for a single tie rod part is about $80. The labor cost might be between $60 and $90, which brings it up to $170.
For some cars, the tie rods are sold as a unit. In most cases, your vehicle might need alignment, which brings the total cost to about $220.
Should I replace both Inner Tie Rod and Outer Tie Rods?
It may not always be necessary to replace both tie rods, but most times, if one tie rod is faulty, the other one is probably about to spoil too.
Also, mechanics tend to recommend changing both if you are replacing the original tie rod.
If only one part needs to be replaced, then ensure you select a replacement that is identical to the original one.
You can consult your mechanic to know if it is compatible and similar enough to your old one. The new tie rod should be the same shape, size, and length.
How many Tie Rods does a Car have?
Most cars have four tie rods. One outer tie rod on the left and one on the right side and the same for the inner tie rod.
Some cars might have only one tie rod that links to the two sides of the vehicle. These tie rods help move your car in the direction of your choosing.
They give you steering control, so if any of the tie rods in your vehicle is faulty, it will reduce your ability to handle the vehicle.
Controlling a car with a faulty or broken tie rod is almost impossible.
How to Remove Inner Tie Rod Without Tool: Step-by-Step Guide
FAQs About How to Remove Inner Tie Rod Without Tool
How dangerous is it to drive with a bad inner tie rod?
It is possible to drive with drive a bad tie rod. But there is no way you can drive if your tie rod is completely faulty or broken.
Without your tie rod, you’ll lose control of your steering, putting your life in danger.
What are the indications of a faulty inner tie rod?
If your tie rod is faulty, you usually experience difficulty steering and might feel a random shake in your steering wheel whenever you drive.
The faulty tie rod will also cause unusual tire wear. Inspecting the wheels of your vehicle is another way to check the condition of your inner tie rods.
How do tie rods affect breaks?
Tie rods do not have a huge impact on your breaks. But a faulty tie rod usually makes your steering wheel wobble every time you step on the brakes.
What would happen if your tie rod broke while driving?
A faulty tie rod can still be managed. But if your tie rod breaks completely while driving, you could be in danger of having a serious accident.
A broken tie rod might cause the wheel next to the tie rod to fall.
Why are tie rods important?
Tie rods are a part of your vehicle. They allow you to steer and turn it. They help move your wheels in your desired direction.
Without them, you would not be able to control your car. Bad tie rods allow your car wheels to come out of their specified alignment.
This will cause your steering wheel to move randomly and vibrate.
Why should you get an alignment after replacing a tie rod?
Alignment helps to return the wheel’s angle to its original specifications. So it is necessary to perform alignment after you have replaced an inner tie rod or any other suspension part.
The wheel alignment is even more important if you replaced the part yourself.
What sound does a broken tie rod make?
A broken/bad tie rod makes a high-pitched squealing noise when you turn the wheel. You may also hear a knocking or clunking noise sometimes.
This sound tends to be louder when you go over speed bumps.
When should you replace the inner tie rod of your vehicle?
Some tie-rods may last for years. There are car owners who may never have to replace their tie rods.
But in most cases, tie rods become faulty after a couple of years. You use your vehicle’s tie rod when you use the steering wheel which you do every time you use your car.
So tie rods spoil with time due to the wear and tear.
Where are tie rods located?
A tie-rod is located in front. It is usually found underneath the engine compartment of the vehicle. Most vehicles have a tie rod on both sides.
But there are some vehicles with only one tie-rod. This single tie rod connects both sides of the vehicle
Verdict
Knowing how to remove inner tie rod without tool could be quite beneficial.
Removing the inner tie rod can be a simple, stress-free process. But you must follow the steps above if you want to properly remove your vehicle’s inner tie rods without tools.
Consult your mechanic if you are confused at any point and do not do anything you do not fully understand.
The steps described in this article are easy to follow and will help even beginners remove their inner tie rods without any special tools.
Anyone with basic automotive knowledge can follow these steps and remove their tie rods. This method will save you money, time, and a trip to the mechanic shop.