I don't know what tools are needed for this job. It looks like I need to remove the tires and brakes to get to it. Is this correct? Any help greatly appreciated!How do I change tie rods on a 2001 Saturn SL1?
you will need a jack, some kind of tool to take off the lug nuts, such as a 4-way, the tool that comes with your car, an impact wrench with the correct size socket., a pickle fork(this is a tool with a longish handle and it splits at the end to go around the tie rod end or ball joint), and whatever wrench fits the nut on the bottom of the tie rod end.you will also need a hammer.
These are the necessary tools for an outer end, which is the most common problem. if you are replacing the entire tie rod, and not just the end, follow the tie rod up to the rack and pinion.there will be a nut there.this nut unscrews to take the tie rod off.
If it is just an outer end, jack up the vehicle and remove the tire on the correct side of the vehicle. the tie rod end on the vehicle screws onto the tie rod and is secured in place by a nut that is tightened against it. loosen this nut by turning it clockwise, this way the nut moves away from the end. now, take off the nut on the bottom of the tie rod end.there may be a cotter key here.remove that first.once this nut is completely removed, get the pickle fork.try to jam it between the tie rod end and the place it is mounted.once in place, hit the end of the pickle fork handle with a hammer.keep doing this until the end pops out of the hole.now unscrew the end from the tie rod. Leave the nut on the tie rod, as it will keep the alignment close.screw the new end on and put the shaft facing down into the hole.put on and tighten that nut and cotter pin, and tighten the nut on the tie rod against the new end.
You will need to take your car in for an alignment afterwards unless you dont mind putting new tires on it way prematurelyHow do I change tie rods on a 2001 Saturn SL1?
Tie rods are really simple in most cars. FIRST buy a chilton manual so the steps to do it are very simple and laid out for you. You'll need a good neumatic jack. God to Oreilys or auto zone to rent the tie rod puller.
It's really as simple as jacking up the car, pulling off the old tie rod and puttin on a new one. Make sure you count your treads for your new tie rod or your steering will be jacked...How do I change tie rods on a 2001 Saturn SL1?
Honestly , if you don't know how to do it. Take it to a mechanic. You will have alot of problems and most likely not do the job correct.How do I change tie rods on a 2001 Saturn SL1?
You'll want a professional to do this job, and after they finish the tie rods have your front end aligned. All this takes special tools and experience.How do I change tie rods on a 2001 Saturn SL1?
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