Technical *HELP* Track rod removal

[Ali P]

Had a bit of an encounter with the kerb in the ice yesterday and it's bent the n/side track rod.

Now how the f@*k does it come out! I've managed(eventually!) to get the track rod end out...damn those taper fits...but at the other end, the steering rack end there's a ball and socket joint.

Anyone know how to get this apart? I want to see if it's possible to straighten it slightly then reset the tracking, failing that replace it. I rang fiat, and the track rod is available as a spare part(@ £45!) so it must come out somehow? Does the track rod come with this joint already installed and i have to fit it at the rack?

HEEEEEEELLLLLLLLP!

 

[polecat]

Hi and welcome to the forum

If you look along from the ball and socket joint towards the bellows you will see that there is a lock nut and a threaded bar. You loosen the lock nut and then unscrew the ball joint assembly off the tie rod. Count the number of turns so you don't change your tracking.

Fix the bend and then screw it back on counting the turns again. If you get a new one and fit that by counting the turns you should have the same tracking again.

.....Oh you would still be advised to get the tracking checked again at some point.....

Dave.

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[josize]

i have got the same problem but my hub is not attached to the track rod and so the rod turns as i try and undo that nut.....any advise of how i could losen it off easily????

 

[fiat_-_bravo]

i have got the same problem but my hub is not attached to the track rod and so the rod turns as i try and undo that nut.....any advise of how i could losen it off easily????

Clamp some mole grips to the rod to hold to stop the rod from turning as you undo