<VV> Tie Rod End Removal Tools

[Sethracer at aol.com]

In a message dated 1/29/2006 10:19:15 AM Pacific Standard Time,  
UltraMonzaWest at aol.com writes:

Ask for  a "Pickle Fork" at your local FLAPS  otherwise..since the shaft is  
tapered....pry down with something and hit the outer part of the steering  
arm / 
pitman / idler with a BFH!

Matt Nall 


I noticed that Harbor Freight has a pair of tools that can be ued to  
"displace" the tie-rod ends. It is basically a U-shaped clamp which pushed the  end 
out. I bought one at my local FLAPS, (You always need it at the last  minute). 
You undo the nut to put it flush with the end of the threads, then  clamp on 
the tool and tighten it to "pre-load" the end. Then a simple whack with  a 
hammer - usually on the tool body - will usually pop it loose. They make  these in 
a slightly larger size to pop ball joints out of spindles as well.  These 
tools have the advantage of not damaging the boot/seal that protects the  tapered 
joint. The pickle fork always seemed to tear up the boots. - Seth  Emerson