Hi Can anyone confirm what (reasonably priced) Track rod removal tool I need, from the pics it looks as if the end that screws to the rack is completely round I.e. no flats Thanks
There are flats on the back of them, this is the sort of tool you need. https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/1-2-Tie-...497923?hash=item2887a60b83:g:a0kAAOSwBxddsJVd
I'll try again !! https://abtoolsonline.com/steering-...track-axial-joint-removal-tool-35-45mm-at685/
So how does it grip - does it have knurled rollers ? Any chance of a close up photo of the end that grips ?
I went full ghetto and made my own. The only downside is that you can’t use a torque wrench with this offset design. However, you can with the type in the link above. Still worked a treat though for me though.
Any lubrication of joint or rack required? I was also thinking of replacing the end bush with one from track focussed- anything I need to know about that ?
Is this on a mk2 Paul ??? If so you need to drop off the drivers side arm as well, it gives you a bit more movement to get the bush out, quite an easy job to do. Not sure if the mk3 has or needs these, not heard of anyone doing this on one
Yeh - latest project is an R26 Changinging both tie rods and rod ends so may as well do the bush Can you pull the bush out with long nose pliers ? Do you have to add lube - if so what type ? Thanks
No, I don’t think you’d get it with long nose pliers. I made a hook by bending the end of an old thin screwdriver. Like mentioned above, having the opposite track rod disconnected makes all the difference. I didn’t and it was quite a battle. As for lube, I think I lubed both the rack and the track rod. Not sure the track rod is necessary but lube the rack for sure. One other thing, be sure the get the correct track rod length. If I remember correctly, it’s a genuine part only on these. Auto factors will sell you one but it will be incorrect.
Something tells me you’re supposed to use silicone grease but I’m not 100% sure. Maybe someone else can chip in here? To be honest, I just used a good quality bearing grease on mine. I think actually it might mention something in the instructions supplied with the rack bush??
