How to Remove Inner Tie Rod Without Tool

The tie rod is an essential component of a vehicle’s steering system, but it is liable to wear out over time resulting in vibrations and uneven tire wear out.

Firstly, The tie rod consists of two ends, namely – the outer tie rod and the Inner tie rod – respectively. These two help transmit movement to the steering knuckle from the rack and pinion when you turn the wheel, causing the tire to turn.

Removing the outer tie rod is easy because it is visible on one end of the tire and can be removed by unbolting and hitting it off with a hammer. However, the Inner tie rod is usually located in-between the center of the vehicle, making it tougher to remove without special tools.

Fortunately, we have found an easy way to remove the Inner tie rod without a puller or other customized tools. This procedure should take only a few minutes, depending on your proficiency in auto repairs.

Table of Contents

How Do You Get an Inner Tie Rod Out Without a Tool?

In this section, we will learn how to remove the Inner tie rod using readily available tools like a professional mechanic.

Tools Required

Jack and Jack stands
Lug wrench
Adjustable wrench
Hammer
Pipe or long metal bar (for leverage)
Vice grips or locking pliers
Penetrating oil

Step 1: Preparation

Before you begin, ensure your car is parked with the parking brake on a flat surface and in a safe and suitable workspace.

Next, lift the vehicle using a jack and secure it with a jack stand > locate the wheel associated with the tie rod and loosen its nuts with a lug wrench.

This will give you access to the steering components, especially the outer tie rod end.

Step 2: Remove the Outer Tie Rod

In a real sense, the outer tie rod is supposed to come before the Inner tie rod, so it is logical to remove it first.

The tie rod is usually secured with a nut, but since it is close to the wheel, it is ideal to apply Penetrating oil first to loosen any rust or corrosion before unscrewing it with a wrench.

Once the nut is off, you have to hit the outer tie rod off by tapping the rubber with a hammer and applying the long metal bar for leverage (I will not advise you to hit the tip of the joint except if you want to replace it).

Now, displace the outer tie rod from the steering knuckle by turning it counterclockwise (count the number of turns it took before the tie rod got out of the steering knuckle).

Step 3: Removing the Boot

To remove the boot, draw another nut that joins that Inner tie rod to the outer tie rod. After you have applied penetrating oil to it, you can screw the nut off.

The next thing is to remove the clamps that hold the boot in place with a pair of nose pliers. One clamp holds the boot in the front, while the other has it at the back.

Now, carefully remove the rod that holds the boot in place while noting the side facing the driver’s and passenger sides, respectively, because of reinstallation.

Finally, you can freely remove the boot, and it clamps.

Step 4: Remove the Inner Tie Rod

Removing the Inner tie rod can be achieved by prying the pin that holds it intact. This can be achieved with a pick or a screwdriver. You may also need to hit the screwdriver a few times before it gets off.

Once the pin is off, you can remove the Inner tie rod end. Displace the Inner tie rod by turning it in a counterclockwise direction.

How to Remove Inner Tie Rod Without Tool [VIDEO]

FAQs

Do tie rods affect steering?

The tie rod is an essential component of a vehicle’s steering system. It helps translate the steering inputs to the wheels.

What tool is used to remove a tie rod?

Depending on which tie rod end you want to remove from the steering knuckle or ball joint, you’ll need a wrench, a ratchet set, a long metal bar, a jack, needle nose pliers, a mallet or hammer, a penetrating oil, and an inner tie rod tool.

What are the symptoms of a bad inner tie rod?

Your steering wheel vibrating or shaking is the sign of a damaged tie rod that you will most likely notice first. Additionally, related clunking and rattling sounds could be heard, especially while the car is turning at a slow pace.

What causes inner tie rod failure?

Common causes of tie rod damage include regular usage, rough road conditions, and inadequate lubrication. Lack of proper lubrication is often the main factor in tie rod failure. Factors such as potholes, road bumps, and disproportionate impact on curbs can significantly reduce the lifespan of tie rod ends.

Do you need an alignment after replacing the tie rods?

While removing and replacing your tie rods without disturbing the vehicle’s alignment specifications is possible, it is essential to note that alignment should be performed after replacing the outer tie rods. Maintaining the alignment specifications as closely as possible throughout the process is advisable.