Special Tools

J 22610 Keystone Clamp Pliers

1. Remove the outer tie rod. Refer to Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement .



2. Remove the nut (5) from the inner tie rod assembly.
3. Remove the tie rod clamp (4).
4. Use side cutters to remove the boot clamp (2).
5. Discard the boot clamp.

Important: After removing the boot, inspect the inner tie rod for evidence of corrosion or contamination. If none is evident, continue with the repair. If corrosion or contamination is evident, replace the steering gear.

6. Remove the rack and pinion boot (3).

1. Install the new boot clamp (2) onto the rack and pinion boot (3).



2. Apply grease to the inner rod (2) and apply grease to the gear assembly (1) prior to the boot (3) installation.



3. Install the boot (3) onto the inner tie rod assembly.

Important: The rack and pinion boot must not be twisted or out of shape in any way. An improperly shaped boot must be shaped by hand before installing the boot clamp.

4. Install the boot (3) onto the gear assembly (1) until the boot is seated in the gear assembly groove.



5. Install the boot clamp on the boot (1) using tool J 22610  (2).
6. Crimp the boot clamp (2).
7. Install the tie rod end clamp on the boot using pliers.
8. Install the jam nut to the inner tie rod assembly.
9. Install the outer tie rod. Refer to Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement .