[s-cars] Tie rod end removal

[Fred Munro]

Paul;

If I recall correctly the tie rod end is slotted in the threaded section.
Clean out the slots with a sharp tool to allow the penetrating oil to soak
in. Place a big hammer under the threaded section of the tie rod end as an
'anvil" and whack on the top of the threaded section with another hammer -
the objective is to flex the threads and break the rust loose. Work around
the tie rod end with the hammers. If that doesn't work, heat the end up with
your propane torch and melt a wax candle on the hot metal. The wax wicks
into the threads and lubricates them; this often works when penetrating oil
fails. If that doesn't work you'll likely need a flame wrench aka
oxy-acetylene torch to heat the end red hot.

If you do remove the tie rod, you can secure it in a vise to get more torque
on the end, but be careful not to damage the rod.

Good luck! These can be a real pain.

Fred Munro
'97 S6


-----Original Message-----
From: Paul Heneghan [mailto:squashstring at gmail.com]On Behalf Of Paul
Heneghan
Sent: November 1, 2008 7:30 PM
To: theringmeister at triad.rr.com; 'Fred Munro'; 'S-Car-List (E-mail)'
Subject: RE: [s-cars] Tie rod end removal


I've soaked it in some UK equivalent of PB Blaster.  I'll let it sit
overnight and try again in the morning.  I've only got a plumber's propane
torch, so I can't get as much heat as oxy-acetylene, but this is the first
time it's failed me.

If I get no luck tomorrow, I'll disconnect the whole tie rod from the
steering box - I don't like bending that tab back though.

Paul

-----Original Message-----
From: Wylie Bean [mailto:theringmeister at triad.rr.com]
> Paul, did you say you'd tried PB Blaster? I've deleted your original
email.  You may have to let it sit for a while,
> but that's pretty good stuff.