Track rod removal on a synergie

brandysnaps · Unread post by **brandysnaps** » 01 Dec 2009, 21:21

How easy is it to replace track rod i had an advisory a year ago so now i think its time to change them

handyman · Unread post by **handyman** » 02 Dec 2009, 12:30

I would suggest if you need to ask on here how to change track rod ends, you would be better off taking your car to an expert. These parts are a vital link in the steering system, and although quite simple in function, if they are not fitted correctly, the consequences could be disasterous. The steering needs to be checked and, if needed, adjusted for tracking after changing the parts.

I am amazed that you could wait a year on an advisory to replace this component. If they are worn, they should be changed.

Handyman

brandysnaps · Unread post by **brandysnaps** » 02 Dec 2009, 18:27

thanks for your advise maybe i should have worded it differently.i was just asking for some tips .i am quite capable of doing the job safely.

handyman · Unread post by **handyman** » 03 Dec 2009, 12:28

It usually takes me about ten minutes as side, to replace track rod ends.

It's worth counting the exposed threads on the link rod before slackening off the locknut, as this will aid you in fitting the new rod and getting the tracking near enough not to scrub the tyres before you check and adjust the tracking.

Clean off all crude amassed on the joint, link, etc. Wire brush is good enough. If there is significant corrosion, use either heat or penetrating oil (parafin/diesel) to help free off any seized nuts. Use spanners that are a good tight fit, unless you like skinning your knuckles.

If the nut on the taper joint is seized or spins, use air chisel or nut splitter to aid removal. Once nut is off, use a BJ seperator, to split taper joint on pin, then unwind socket section from link rod. Oil threads on link rod and wind on new track rod end, count threads, tighten locknut. Fit pin into steering arm, fit and tighten nut. Job done.

Go and get tracking checked and adjusted!

Took me longer to write this than it takes to fit a TRE.

Handyman

brandysnaps · Unread post by **brandysnaps** » 03 Dec 2009, 17:19

Thanks but its not the track rod end (ball jointbut the track rod.Aparently the ball has some wear

Gammy leg · Unread post by **Gammy leg** » 03 Dec 2009, 19:09

Brandysnaps,

I had to change my offside rack-end ( the technical term ) a couple of years ago and it was a @*&$!! to get off.

Details can be found here:

http://www.frenchcarforum.co.uk/forum/v ... t=rack+end

DO make sure that you use some threadlocking compound on the bearing end or it may unscrew itself over time and your steering will do the splits!! How I know this.........

HTH

Gammy