Re: TIE RODS 4KQ

[Huw Powell <human@nh.ultranet.com>]

> has anyone out there changed the complete front tie rods
> on their 4k....some hints as how to go about this would be helpful...It looks
> aweful
> tight in that engine compartment....

Almost as bad as you think.  You undo the nuts on the tie rod ends and
pop them out of the bearing housing assembly.  This can be tough
sometimes, need a puller.  The inner ends are attached to a bracket on
the end of the rack.  two bolts go through this bracket and the tie rods
- but they are not normal bolts, they are studs that attach to a plate. 
To get this out you have to undo the bolts holding the bracket to the
rack.  First remove the nuts (from underneath, may want to adjust
steering wheel to expose them)  Then undo the bolts - the rack is
threaded as well.  then the bracket hinges out/pops off, I forget which,
and the plate can be removed, and the tie rods fall out.

Try to make the new tie rods the same length as the old ones, even so
you may barely be able to drive to the alignment shop.  (btdt)

Replace all the nuts with new locking nuts.

-- 
Huw Powell

http://www.thebook.com/human-speakers/audi-main.htm

the steering wheel isn't connected to anything, it's just a place to
rest your hands