How hard is it to replace a tie rod?

[expatriated]

My brother-in-law has a 2007 Hyundai Entourage minivan. Among other things, it needs rotors replaced, new pads, oil change, and air filters changed. But it also needs a new tie rod end. I feel comfortable with everything but the tie rod as I've never done one.

Assuming I am moderately competent and can handle the above items, should I tackle the tie rod replacement?

Also, anyone know if there is an online factory service manual available for this vehicle?

Thanks!!!!

 

[bmwpower]

No experience with this particular vehicle, but if it's anything like other vehicles, it should be easy. Unbolt the tie rod end from the knuckle, use a remover if needed or whack it with a hammer to pop it out. Measure how far the tie rod end is screwed into the rest of the rod. You will want to get as close as possible when screwing on the new one as this will maintain the alignment specs.

Sorry, don't know of any online manuals for it, but you might try autozone.com for torque specs, etc. Wouldn't be the first car I jump into fixing without a manual.

 

[Joelfke]

left? or right side? i can post pics from alldata....

also keep in mind any time you change a steering component like that (inner tie rod outer tie rod) you will need a computerized alignment. you can get it close by eye but it wont be perfect.

 

[Major Ramifications]

Inner or outer?

 

[expatriated]

left? or right side? i can post pics from alldata....

also keep in mind any time you change a steering component like that (inner tie rod outer tie rod) you will need a computerized alignment. you can get it close by eye but it wont be perfect.

Inner or outer?

Good questions. I will have to get back to you.

Yeah, I know it will have to be realigned. Heck, it needs alignment even before the replacements. They don't take the greatest care of their cars.

 

[Red Green]

left? or right side? i can post pics from alldata....

also keep in mind any time you change a steering component like that (inner tie rod outer tie rod) you will need a computerized alignment. you can get it close by eye but it wont be perfect.

Why couldn't he use a string and a tape mesure like the race car guys do?

 

[bmwpower]

Good questions. I will have to get back to you.

Yeah, I know it will have to be realigned. Heck, it needs alignment even before the replacements. They don't take the greatest care of their cars.

I thought you said it was the tie rod end, which would equate to the outer tie rod, no?

 

[expatriated]

I thought you said it was the tie rod end, which would equate to the outer tie rod, no?

He said it was the "tie rod." When I said, "tie rod end?" he said yeah. But, I need to confirm that cause there is a good chance he just agreed with me, the more I thought about it.

I'll get back. I appreciate everyone's input, as always.

 

[expatriated]

Ok, guys. It's the driver's side INNER tie rod. How does that change things?

I'm not even sure I know where that is. I think I see a trip to the shop in his future.

 

[jonny o]

If you have a decent library near SE of Disorder, check them for a Haynes or Chiltons.
You have a good jack and good set of jackstands? Ramps for the rears?
Metric wrenches?
Warm flat floor?
Pickle fork or puller?
Edit: You can get a special tie rod tool from autozone or advanced on the rent free deal.

It's not that difficult, but your first one can be a pain in the *** if you are uncomfortable trying to do it.

Good thing about it is... If you can't break something loose, you can still put it all back together, run the adjustment to the edge of the rust on the threads and limp it to an alignment shop.

 

[expatriated]

If you have a decent library near SE of Disorder, check them for a Haynes or Chiltons.
You have a good jack and good set of jackstands? Ramps for the rears?
Metric wrenches?
Warm flat floor?
Pickle fork or puller?
Edit: You can get a special tie rod tool from autozone or advanced on the rent free deal.

It's not that difficult, but your first one can be a pain in the *** if you are uncomfortable trying to do it.

Good thing about it is... If you can't break something loose, you can still put it all back together, run the adjustment to the edge of the rust on the threads and limp it to an alignment shop.

The only thing I don't have is the puller but I can get one of those easy enough.

Is the driver's side identical to the passenger's side? So I can have a visual reference?

 

[Joelfke]

Why couldn't he use a string and a tape mesure like the race car guys do?

haha you COULD but I only recommend an alignment because you can't get it perfect. I did an outer tie rod end on my buddies accord and then took it to the shop to align it and it was only off a hair, but I'd rather it be perfect

 

[jonny o]

The only thing I don't have is the puller but I can get one of those easy enough.

Is the driver's side identical to the passenger's side? So I can have a visual reference?

Crawl under it and take a look... There's only one way it can go back together. If you are still uncomfortable, take a picture. If you are still uncomfortable, don't risk your buddies safety for a little cash.

If you are a decently well-rounded shadetree mechanic, you should feel comfortable once you see the book and have the car in front of you... If not... don't hesitate calling off the whole deal.

 

[rikmeister]

ifg it is a hyundai is it not under waranty yet if it is a 2007. should be. the engine is 10 yr 100,000 but every thing eslse should be 3 36000 or 4 50000.

 

[warpedredneck]

hmaservice.com
sign up for free and get all the info you need

 

[z28snksknr]

Warm flat floor?

I don't qualify for this job. My floor is currently cold.