2 replies to this topic

[robinlambert]

whats the best way to get them off.
can i take the whole track rod off the steering rack ?
maybe try it on the bench, or maybe just buy new track rods ?

[Pooky]

If you're taking them off, you'd be silly not to replace them.

Firstly, have you undone the lock nut that tightens against the TRE? If this is free then whip out your blow torch and heat the TRE up for a couple of minutes before trying to undo. I'd be surprised if you had to resort to removing the operating arm from the rack. This isn't something I'd want to do.

Remember to put a nice smear of copper grease down on the threads when the new one goes on! I've even seen large heatshrink tubes that cover the join between the TRE, the lock nut and any remaining thread.

Also remember to count the number of turns it takes to remove the old TRE and put the new on on the same.

[Dan]

Cut right through the track rod end body, after where the threaded section of the track rod will finish inside it. Then cut a couple of slices into the sides of the remaining threaded tube and pry the sections away. When they get stuck they get really stuck and I've had serious trouble getting even the chopped up setions of one off the rod in the past. It takes about 45 minuted with a hacksaw. Don't be tempted to use a grinder and be careful not to mark the track rod itself. Once you've cut through the side far enough to reveal some threads, you can use a nut splitter to finish so you don't have to cut the threads themsleves. Removing the rods in situ is not easy, because the collars that hold them are pinned and the rack is basically designed to be non-servicable on later cars.