Inner Tie Rod Replacement 2007 Grand Caravan
In this How-to, I'll show you how to replace an inner tie rod on a 07 Grand Caravan. This process will be the same on 01-07 models.
TOOLS REQUIRED:
-19mm socket or lug wrench
-18mm socket
-22mm wrench
-pliers
-straight jaw vise grip
-tie rod socket
-hammer
-red loctite
ESTIMATED TIME:
30-45 mins
STEP 1: Raise and support vehicle safely. Even if you are only doing 1 inner tie rod, it will help if you raise the entire front end so you can turn the steering while working. ALWAYS USE JACK STANDS IN PAIRS. Remove the wheel.
STEP 2: Loosen the jam nut on the outer tie rod using a 22mm wrench.
STEP 3: Loosen and remove the 18mm lock nut on the outer tie rod end.
STEP 4: Use a hammer and hit the knuckle where the tie rod goes through to break the tie rod free from the knuckle. You can also use a tie rod pickle fork if it is being stubborn. When it is free, remove the outer tie rod and count how many turns until it is fully unthreaded from the inner tie rod. Mark down this number as it will help to keep your wheel alignment close to spec you when you reassemble.
STEP 5: Lock a straight jaw vise grip on the flat spots of the inner tie rod. Remove the jam nut all the way.
STEP 6: Remove the clamp holding the dust boot. Theres also a clamp on the side of the boot closest to the steering rack. Sorry I didn't get a picture of this clamp In my case, this clamp was just a hose clamp. It is usually a reusable crimp type clamp. There is a vent tube attached to the bottom of the dust boot. Slide this out and remove the boot.
STEP 7: Use a tie rod tool to remove the inner tie rod from the steering rack. This may be stiff. Leverage with a breaker bar will probably be necessary.
STEP 8: Apply a bead of red loctite on the threads going into the steering rack on the new inner tie rod. Reassembly is reverse of removal. Install the outer tie rod the same amount of turns that you removed it. Have an alignment performed after completion.
TIPS:
-if you damaged the inside clip on the dust boot, you can get away by using a regular gear type hose clamp as pictured below.
-apply some antisieze compound to the inner rie rod threads for the outer tie rod. This will be a lifesaver for future alignments!
-if you are you using an aftermarket tie rod, don't be surprised if the wheel alignment if off a fair bit when you reassemble, even if you counted the turns on the outer tie rod. A small difference from OEM to aftermarket steering components can result in a drastic change to toe alignment spec.
