'96 855 Tie Rod end stuck in steering knuckle--MVSolved

[dosbricks]

I'm using a tie-rod pickle-fork tool but have pounded it nearly to smithereens. It's been soaking in PB-Blaster for 24hrs, and today after removing all remnants of the rubber boot, I resorted to heating the knuckle with a torch and pounding with a 6lb sledge. Also applied PB-B right after heating. No joy.

I'm concerned all this shock may be transferring to the steering rack and might damage the seal.
I would appreciate advice from the battle tested wing of this board. Thanks.

[harryhendo]

First, I'm assuming you removed the tie rod end nut holding the tie rod to the steering knuckle, then replaced it a few turns to hold it steady.

The best method I've found is to use a balljoint separator tool, like this one, instead of a pickle fork:
https://www.amazon.com/OTC-6297-Ball-Joi ... 716&sr=1-3

This tool pulls up the top end while also applying pressure on the bolt. It works very well.

[cn90]

Or place a piece of wood to support the steering knuckle and hit the tierod end from above ---> downward.

[dosbricks]

A big tip of the hat and thanks, harryhendo, for pointing me to the right tool. I made a run to Harbor Freight and got this with a 20% off coupon:
http://www.harborfreight.com/3-4-quarte ... 99849.html
It actually has the same type bolt head on the screw part as the one on Amazon.

It worked and when it popped loose like a shot, I knew that pounding that pickle fork separator would have never done it. Some of these are a bear to deal with, and now having the right tool will make this job cake in the future.

Cheers

[abscate]

We heard the pop up here in NY!

Bravo Zulu!

[dosbricks]

South Jersey....maybe

[harryhendo]

Glad it worked for you Dos Bricks! It is quite a thrill when that tie rod end pops out. My son and I are rebuilding his recently acquired '94 manual trans 855, so listen for the pops later this summer !