[DML] Ouch! Tie Rods Ends 1 - Tom 0

["Tom Tait" <TTait@xxxxxxxxxx>]

OK, Maybe we are tied 1-1...

I'm mid-way through replacing my steering rack.  The rack is still in the car, mounts removed, bolts off the steering knuckle threads and I used a "pickle fork" to pop the passenger side tie rod end loose, no problem.  The drivers side has kicked my butt.

I have applied wd40, freeze off, heat, and I've tried hammering with the nut over the top of the threads to protect them.  I've lifted the suspension a bit with the jack and cranked the steering to the right and the left a bit to try to change the angle/stress on the joint.  Nothing budges at all.  The second round of the fight was running long...

Using the tie rod end seperator, I drove the wedge in as far as it would humanly go, and then started pushing down on it to to pop it loose.  Finally I put most of my weight on it.  The tool slipped loose and my face came down and hit the fender full force.  Pretty stars swirling.  No blood or broken bones/cartilidge, but I do have a bit of a shiner.  And the tie rod is still firmly wedged into the knuckle.  I even went back a few hours later and worked on it some more - no joy.

The car is rather useless without steering.  What's next?   

Tom

------------------------------------

To address comments privately to the moderating team, please address:
moderators@xxxxxxxxxxx

For more info on the list, tech articles, cars for sale see www.dmcnews.com

To search the archives or view files, log in at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dmcnewsYahoo! Groups Links

<*> To visit your group on the web, go to:
    http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dmcnews/

<*> Your email settings:
    Individual Email | Traditional

<*> To change settings online go to:
    http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dmcnews/join
    (Yahoo! ID required)

<*> To change settings via email:
    mailto:dmcnews-digest@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx 
    mailto:dmcnews-fullfeatured@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

<*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
    dmcnews-unsubscribe@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

<*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to:
    http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/