Tire rod ends. What do I need before getting started?

entheogenist · #1 (**permalink**) 06-08-2011, 08:36 PM

Hi
I'm changing tire rod ends on my ford escort. (96)
First time to change a set. What do I need to know
before getting started?
also, will i need any special tools, etc for the job?

thanks

85e150six4mtod · #2 (**permalink**) 06-08-2011, 11:51 PM

Tie rod ends. Your car is rack and pinion, right? So they really aren't "tie rod" ends, but serve the same purpose and NAPA calls them tie rod ends anyway.

You will need a tie rod seperator to get them apart. You may get another post with the exact tool needed, or need to do more research about which one to use on that vehicle.

Automotive Tools - Tie Rod Separators

Then you need an alignment to set the toe and center the rack. If you can keep the rack centered doing this, that would be better.

Is the rack in good condition?