Tie Rod: Removing

-- Turn steering wheel into the straight ahead position.

-- Loosen the wheel bolts.

-- Raise the vehicle.

-- Remove the wheel.

-- Clean the outside of the steering gear in the area of the boot.

-- Loosen the tie rod the wheel bearing housing nut, but do not remove yet.

Fig 1: Identifying Nut Of Track Rod Ball Joint

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, INC.

CAUTION:

To protect the threads, leave the nut on the stud a few turns.

-- Open the clamps and push back the boot.

-- Remove the tie rod.

Fig 2: Loosening/Tightening Tie Rod

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, INC.

NOTE:

If corrosion, damage, wear out or the first signs of contamination on the steering gear can be seen, the complete steering gear must be replaced.

If no grease film is visible on the steering gear, the steering gear must also be replaced completely.