There is a slot machined in the steering rack itself, on each end
where the inner tie rods connect. When the tie rods are installed,
someone (should have) taken a punch and dimpled the thin flange
around the edge of the tie rod joint into this groove. This prevents
the tie rod from coming loose inside the boot, where it can't be
inspected.

To remove the tie rod end, take a punch and tap the dimple out the
other way so that the tie rod can turn freely. Be sure to follow the
illustration in the Bentley, which shows the rack itself--not the
housing--locked up in a vise. If you clamp the housing, you risk
messing up the pinion and seals when you put torque on the tie rod
end to loosen it. With the rack extended and locked up in the vise,
you avoid stressing the pinion and seals.

Obviously, scratching or marring the rack with the jaws of a vise
would not be a good idea either, so cut an aluminum can (or similar,
maybe rags would work if you're lucky) to use for a pad to protect
the rack.

Jim

On Jul 13, 2007, at 9:48 AM, thomas LaPointe wrote:

> couldn't find out how to remove an inner tie rod in my manual.
> there appears
> to be a pin/tag that needs to be removed before turning it off. advice
> needed here. thank you, Rustfalia
>