How to Replace Inner and Outer Tie Rod: 2009-2018 Dodge RAM 1500

Watch this video to learn how to replace the inner and outer tie rods on a 2009-2018 Dodge RAM 1500.

Replacing Inner and Outer Tie Rods on a 2009-2018 Dodge RAM 1500: What You Need

Ready to perform this DIY replacement job? Remember that all the parts in this guide can be found on CarParts.com. Check out all the products that fit your vehicle right here.

Parts Checklist

• Inner tie rod
• Outer tie rods
• Penetrating oil
• Silicone grease

Tightening Torques

• Inner Tie rod: 125 Ft-lbs
• Tie rod end adjuster clamp bolts: 45 Ft-lbs
• Tie rod end holding nut: 78 Ft-lbs

Tools Checklist

Here’s the toolbox we recommend to repair your Dodge RAM 1500: HM85 85 Piece Ratchet and Socket Set

List of tools:

• Hydraulic jack
• Jack stands
• Wheel lug wrench
• Marker
• 24mm wrench
• 23mm wrench
• Wire brush
• Ratchet
• 21mm socket
• 13/32” socket
• Ball joint puller
• Hammer
• Caliper
• Pliers
• Flat head screwdriver
• Tie rod removal wrench
• Breaker bar
• Adjustable wrench
• Torque wrench
• 7mm socket

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Turn off your vehicle’s engine and set the parking brake.

Step 2: Loosen the stud bolts on the front wheels.

Step 3: Lift the front of your vehicle using a suitable jack. Refer to the video on “How to jack your RAM 1500 safely” for guidance.

Step 4: Place the vehicle on jack stands.

Step 5: Remove the wheels to gain complete access to the steering system. Place the wheels under the vehicle.

Step 6: Turn the disc outward for easier access to the outer tie rod.

Step 7: Use a marker to trace a line between the inner and outer tie rods for reference.

Step 8: With a 24mm wrench, loosen the locknut on the outer tie rod while holding the inner tie rod with a 23mm wrench.

Step 9: Use a socket wrench and a 21mm socket to unscrew the outer tie rod holding nut. If the ball joint turns, block its rotation with a ratchet and a 13/32” socket.

Step 10: If needed, use a ball joint puller or a hammer to separate the ball joint from the knuckle.

Step 11: Unscrew the outer tie rod and remove it. Return the locknut to its original position using the marker line as a guide.

Step 12: Measure the distance between the locknut and the end of the inner tie rod with a caliper.

Step 13: Remove the locknut from the inner tie rod.

Step 14: Remove the external metallic clip and waterproof clip on the sleeve of the inner tie rod.

Step 15: Use a tie rod removal wrench to unscrew the inner tie rod. If dented, an adjustable wrench can be used.

Step 16: Take the new inner tie rod, unscrew the locknut, and put the tie rod axle joint back on the steering rack.

Step 17: Screw the inner tie rod back in and finish tightening with a torque wrench.

Step 18: Take the new sleeve, apply silicone grease, and put it onto the inner tie rod.

Step 19: Use the new clamps to secure the sleeve, screwing them in with a ratchet and a 7mm socket.

Step 20: Replace the outer collar and screw the locknut back on until the measured distance is reached.

Step 21: Take the new outer tie rod, unscrew the locknut, and put the outer tie rod back in place until it touches the locknut.

Step 22: Use an adjustable wrench to rotate the inner tie rod and position the outer tie rod correctly.

Step 23: Scrub the knuckle with a wire brush, apply silicone grease, and put the outer tie rod back in place in the knuckle.

Step 24: Tighten the castellated nut with a ratchet and a 21mm socket. Finish tightening with a torque wrench.

Step 25: Insert the key into the castle nut, use a screwdriver to bend the key, and finish tightening the locknut with a 24mm wrench.

Step 26: Put the wheels back on the vehicle.

Step 27: Lower the car and properly block the wheels.

Step 28: Operation complete.

Compatible Vehicles

The operation and tools displayed in the video should be available on the following vehicles:

• 2009 Dodge Ram 1500
• 2010 Dodge Ram 1500
• 2011 Ram 1500
• 2012 Ram 1500
• 2013 Ram 1500
• 2014 Ram 1500
• 2015 Ram 1500
• 2016 Ram 1500
• 2017 Ram 1500
• 2018 Ram 1500

Important Reminders

• During this operation, you will work on the steering system of your vehicle. A professional alignment check should be performed to ensure that your steering system is once again perfectly adjusted and functioning.
• The components to be removed are very often seized up, so don’t hesitate to brush and to use penetrating oil to make removal easier.

Disclaimer:

This video is for entertainment purposes only. CarParts.com, Inc. disclaims all damages including, but not limited to, actual, consequential, and/or punitive, for any liability, claim, or any other injury or cause related to or arising from any information or lack thereof posted in this video. No information contained in this video shall create any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. All mechanical car projects entail some risk. It is the sole responsibility of the viewer to assume this risk. If you are in doubt, please consult a licensed mechanic in your area.