replacing inner tie rod on a grand prix

[stevenr2185]

hey guys...

I'm trying to replace the inner tie rod on a 200 GP but I can't seem to get that dust boot off where the tie rod connects to the rack. do you guys have any ideas on how to get it off??

[rixGAphx]

That's not the 'tie rod', it's the 'inner tie rod end'

On R&P steering, there is no actual 'tie rod', just the tie rod ends (terminology left-over from old geared steering systems on Jeeps and trucks and cars of the '60's).

Anyhow, that 'inner tie rod end' is normally a part of the rack assembly, and comes with the bellows-type boot already attached.
There's practically nothing that can go wrong with the inner tie rod end (it doesn't get anywhare near the wear and abuse as the outer tie rod end) so it's rarely replaced.

Here's a pic of the assembly from Checker:
http://www.partsamerica.com/product_images/img/a1c/22162.jpg

Here's a pic of the inner tie rod end itself, prolly what you have in your hand:
http://www.partsamerica.com/product_images/aap/trw/es3103_top.jpg
See the groove near the socket?
The outer end of the bellows will nest in that groove.
You need to disconnect the bellows from the rack itswelf, and these photos don't indicate how it's attached.
*Prolly* some kind of stainless steel band, with a non-removable crimp-type connector. If that's the case, then CAREFULLY cut it off and discard it.
Use a new, oversized, screw-type stainless steel radiatorhose-type clamp to re-install the bellows.

Or don't even replace the inner tie rod end, since it's doubtful there's anything wrong with it.

Hope this helps,
-Rick

[stevenr2185]

thanks so much. there is definitely something wrong with it.. it's broken in half. my brother had a car accident and i am having to replace the halfshaft and the tie rod end.

[rixGAphx]

Originally posted by stevenr2185
thanks so much. there is definitely something wrong with it.. it's broken in half. my brother had a car accident and i am having to replace the halfshaft and the tie rod end. Ahhh.

That'll do it.

Best of luck,
-Rick