Watch this video to learn how to replace outer tie rod on a 2009-2014 Ford F-150.
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.
Tie rod end holding nut : 85 Ft-lbs
Here’s the toolbox we recommend to repair your Ford F-150: HM85 85 Piece Ratchet and Socket Set
List of tools:
Step 1: Turn off the engine and engage the parking brake.
Step 2: Loosen the stud bolts on the front wheels.
Step 3: Lift the front of your vehicle.
Step 4: Place the vehicle on axle stands for safety. Consult our “How to jack your Ford F-150 safely” video for guidance before proceeding.
Step 5: To change the outer tie rods, remove the wheels for full steering system access. Keep the wheels under the vehicle.
Step 6: Turn the disk outwards to ease the process.
Step 7: Locate the outer tie rod.
Step 8: Use penetrating oil and brushing if needed to ease removal of seized components.
Step 9: Mark a line between the inner and outer tie rods using a marker.
Step 10: Use a 24mm wrench to loosen the locknut on the outer tie rod. Hold the inner tie rod with a 15mm wrench.
Step 11: Use a socket wrench and a 21mm socket to unscrew the outer tie rod holding nut.
Step 12: If a ball joint puller isn’t available, use a hammer to release the ball joint from the knuckle.
Step 13: Unscrew the outer tie rod and remove it.
Step 14: Return the locknut to its original position using the marker line.
Step 15: Measure the distance between the locknut and the inner tie rod end using a caliper. Professional wheel alignment check is recommended after this operation.
Step 16: Remove the locknut from the inner tie rod.
Step 17: Take the new outer tie rod and unscrew the supplied locknut.
Step 18: Screw the locknut back on to match the measured distance with the caliper.
Step 19: Place the outer tie rod until it touches the locknut.
Step 20: Professional alignment check is necessary after working on the steering system.
Step 21: Use a wire brush to clean the knuckle and apply silicone grease to the flat part that contacts the outer tie rod sleeve. Do not grease the cone’s inside.
Step 22: Insert the outer tie rod into the knuckle.
Step 23: Place the supplied lug nut and tighten it with a 21mm wrench while using a 10mm wrench to lock rotation.
Step 24: Finish tightening using a torque wrench.
Step 25: Tighten the locknut using a 24mm wrench while holding the inner tie rod with a 17mm spanner.
Step 26: Put the wheels back on the vehicle.
Step 27: Lower the car and secure the wheels.
The operation and tools displayed in the video should be available on the following vehicles :
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.
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