2013~2016 CX-5 Inner Tie Rod Boot Clamp

[yieldchase]

Howdy,

Was about to change my inner tie rods today and noticed that I don’t have the correct tool to crimp the clamp of boot that is rack and pinion side.

I thought I did have all I needed but the tool that I have doesn’t fit. I can use my Knipex pliers or put a zip tie or something and make it work … I’m just wondering if anyone knows what the proper tool is that I’m missing.

Thanks

 

[stickerbush]

Looks like an Oetiker ear clamp

 

[RedBaron]

I thought I did have all I needed but the tool that I have doesn’t fit.

If your pic shows your tool, it looks like you can slide it on from the side, no?

 

[yieldchase]

If your pic shows your tool, it looks like you can slide it on from the side, no?

Ya it’s my tool. It just doesn’t fit any way I try.

I ended up ordering the clamping tool that can crimp on the side this morning -
https://www.amazon.com (commissions earned) it should be here on Friday so I’ll try again on the weekend. Thanks for the ideas!

Plus the side crimp should work better with limited space.

 

[yieldchase]

Just to update -- I ended up taking both sides apart and decided not to replace the inner tie rods this time. They were OK.

I did get the pliers and out of the bag they are not sitting flush with the clamp (side angle). I believe they would do the job but I am not sure how tight the clamp will be. I wonder if it could cut part of the ear in the process. Wish there was a way to squeeze the clamp head on and not from the side.