1996 Ford Escort how to change inner tie rods 96 Escort

Hello -

To better assist you is your model just the Escort, or the GT or LX and what is your engine size in liter.

Hello -

Thanks for the info.........

My suggestion if you are not totally sure if it is the tire rod is to take it to a couple of front end shops and let them check it out and provide you with an estimate. They have the tool, machines to hold the parts and check them. So, since it is free why not take advantage of that.

Then when you find out what the problem is, if it is something you can fix, great. If it something you cannot, then you already have a couple of estimates.

For the tie rod - sorry, there is no pic

You will need a tie rod remover, I prefer the press on over the fork one you use with a hammer if you choose to do it. You can use the tool check out program at Auto Zone or O'Reilly's.

Also if it is the inner one, we don't have directions for that. Here is for the outer.

TIE ROD END
Removal
1. Raise and support vehicle. Remove front wheel assemblies. Remove cotter pin and nut from tie rod end. Disconnect tie rod end from steering knuckle using Tie Rod End Separator (T85M-3395-A).
2. Mark tie rod end, jam nut and front wheel spindle. For installation reference, note number of turns needed to remove tie rod. Hold tie rod end using wrench, and loosen tie rod lock nut. Remove tie rod end. If necessary, remove front suspension steering ball stud dust seal.
Installation
1. Clean tie rod threads, and apply light coat of grease. Thread new tie rod end with approximately same number of turns as noted during removal. Install NEW front suspension steering ball stud dust seal.
2. Place tie rod end into steering knuckle. Install NEW nut on tie rod end stud, and tighten to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS. Continue tightening nut until next castellation aligns with cotter pin hole in tie rod stud. Install NEW cotter pins. Set toe-in, and tighten lock nuts. See appropriate WHEEL ALIGNMENT SPECIFICATIONS & PROCEDURES article in the WHEEL ALIGNMENT section. DO NOT twist boot during removal or installation.

Remember you will have to get the front end lined up afterwards.

Hello -

That is great. Did you get the front end aligned? Not sure if you did or didn't but if you did not that can cause improper wear on your tires... Very quickly.

Thanks again for the info and glad it went well for you.