Tie rod stem spinning

ANTHONY LIMBO

MEMBER
2008 FORD FOCUS
2.0L
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
161,360 MILES

I was replacing the struts and when I got to the tie rod, and sway bar as I am tightening the nut it spins with the stem there for I am not getting anywhere. I have tried using a C clamp, using a jack to push the tie rod up into the knuckle. I have researched and found that a certain tie rod puller can also be used as a clamp to stop it from spinning. Before I spend the money on that I wanted to know if there is another way to do it? I cannot even get the nut off at the moment. I have also noticed that when I did put the nut on and started turning that it stiffened up as if it had attached itself to the stem. Could it be seized?

Sunday, May 20th, 2018 AT 11:41 PM

1 Reply

PATENTED_REPAIR_PRO

MECHANIC
1,853 POSTS

The tie rod should not spin. You will have to replace that tie rod. If you cannot get the nut off, try an impact with 6 point socket if it will fit in there, if not maybe a nut splitter or even a torch and burn it off or at least try heating it up then quickly trying again if the nut will come loose before it cools down.

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Monday, May 21st, 2018 AT 10:02 AM