CheeseHelmet
Member
I just got done changing my inner and outer tie rod ends and thought I'd share my experience. Sorry for the bad pics, my camera is garbage.
Things you'll need:
Regarding the replacement inner tie rod ends: the tie rod ends on either side of the car are slightly different. On the right hand side the ball joint has a vent hole, I'm not sure what it's there for but it must have some function. Some aftermarket companies use the same part for both sides, I'm sure they'll work fine, but you should be aware of the difference. I bought Deeza-brand parts which are pretty close to identical to the OEM ones.
Here's a picture comparing the right (top) and left (bottom) OEM inner tie rod ends:
Notice the vent hole on the right one, it extends through the stud to vent the steering rack.
Regarding the lock washer: the washer needs to be replaced because (1) you'll damage it when you remove it, and (2) it is staked onto the steering rack. It doesn't seem to be mentioned in the service manual, but you do have to stake the washer once you put the new tie rod end in place. The washer looks something like this:
This was taken off my car, notice that it's staked at two points. In order to remove and install the inner tie rod using the special remover tool, you'll need to bend the two smaller tabs on the washer so you can actually get the tool on. You can sorta see one of the tabs in this picture:
Once they're bent back you can use the inner tie rod removal tool:
Once you get everything back together (tightening torque is 50ft-lbs for the inner tie rod end) you'll have to put the boot back on. The outer clamp can be reused but you're forced to cut off the stainless steel wire holding the inner-side of the boot in place. Using some new wire, secure the boot like this:
And that's pretty much it, this job is pretty easy. The hardest part is removing the outer tie rod end. The easiest way to do that is to use an angle grinder to cut the old inner tie rod in half and use a pickle fork to separate the outer tie rod end from the steering knuckle. You'll destroy the inner tie rod end and the outer tie rod end's dust boot, but it'll be quick and easy
Luckily I was able to get everything apart with relative ease (thank you PB blaster) but the method mentioned above is a great backup plan if you get stuck.
Edit: forgot to show the finished product:
Things you'll need:
- Inner tie rod removal tool (makes the job way easier)
- New inner tie rods
- New lock washers (Mazda part # B25D-32-132, they cost me $2.15 each)
- Stainless steel lashing wire (maybe 60-70cm)
Regarding the replacement inner tie rod ends: the tie rod ends on either side of the car are slightly different. On the right hand side the ball joint has a vent hole, I'm not sure what it's there for but it must have some function. Some aftermarket companies use the same part for both sides, I'm sure they'll work fine, but you should be aware of the difference. I bought Deeza-brand parts which are pretty close to identical to the OEM ones.
Here's a picture comparing the right (top) and left (bottom) OEM inner tie rod ends:
Notice the vent hole on the right one, it extends through the stud to vent the steering rack.
Regarding the lock washer: the washer needs to be replaced because (1) you'll damage it when you remove it, and (2) it is staked onto the steering rack. It doesn't seem to be mentioned in the service manual, but you do have to stake the washer once you put the new tie rod end in place. The washer looks something like this:
This was taken off my car, notice that it's staked at two points. In order to remove and install the inner tie rod using the special remover tool, you'll need to bend the two smaller tabs on the washer so you can actually get the tool on. You can sorta see one of the tabs in this picture:
Once they're bent back you can use the inner tie rod removal tool:
Once you get everything back together (tightening torque is 50ft-lbs for the inner tie rod end) you'll have to put the boot back on. The outer clamp can be reused but you're forced to cut off the stainless steel wire holding the inner-side of the boot in place. Using some new wire, secure the boot like this:
And that's pretty much it, this job is pretty easy. The hardest part is removing the outer tie rod end. The easiest way to do that is to use an angle grinder to cut the old inner tie rod in half and use a pickle fork to separate the outer tie rod end from the steering knuckle. You'll destroy the inner tie rod end and the outer tie rod end's dust boot, but it'll be quick and easy
Luckily I was able to get everything apart with relative ease (thank you PB blaster) but the method mentioned above is a great backup plan if you get stuck.
Edit: forgot to show the finished product:
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