tie rod end replacement

maxwell99

Well-known Member
I need to replace the tie rod ends on my TO35, that are located by the steering gearbox.

Question: how do I get the tie rod ends loose from the steering arms.


I have seen (Ed on wheeler dealer, just tap the arm a few times and the tie rod end
comes loose, but that is tv).

There is no room to drive them off, I do not want tear up my steering gearbox as it is
not leaking oil.

Thanks for any suggestions.
 
You will need a tie rod tool. It has a fork on the end which you drive down between the arm and the tie rod.
 
The tie rod fork is best.

In your case, since you're replacing the tie rod end, you'll get a new rubber boot. But if you were going back with the same tie rod end, the fork will damage the boot.

If you don't have a fork, another method is to remove the nut, hold a big hammer tightly against one side of the arm where the taper stud goes through, take a smaller hammer and hit the opposite side. That will usually pop it loose. If it doesn't want to come apart, just a little heat will help, like a propane torch. And if you can, have an assistant pry against the stud or the rod while you hit it.
 
While we're on the tie rod subject...

Trying to get the new ends screwed back in to the same approximate length as the old ones:

I've heard of people counting the number of turns to remove the old one, then doing the same to the new one... Won't work! The threaded area is rarely if ever the same length as the replacement.

Instead, take a measurement first. Usually there is a reference, like the center of the back side of the ball socket, a grease fitting, something that will get you in the ball park length before it's disassembled.

Remember, the replacement will likely be aftermarket, even if it's a factory replacement, they have probably changed suppliers and the replacement will not be exactly like the original.
 
thanks for the tips, 1957 TO35 Ferguson Tractor
just did not know if actually taping it on one side while holding a large hammer on the other side would break it loose.

I had one of those tie rod breaker bars at one time, but a friend borrowed it and I never got it back or lost it along the way.

I was just concerned about too much of a hit on the arm and ruining my gearbox seal.

maybe autozone or some such will loan me a tool,

I first must determine if the ends by the gearbox or right or left hand threads and get the parts.

thanks for the tips.

looked at it again this morning and it looks like a lot of work, when the old tractor drives fine the way it is.

original tie rod ends lasted 58 years, they just do not make stuff like they used too.
a190687.jpg
 
good tip,
thanks,

old tractor drives fine down the black top road, no pull, would not want to change the length of the steering arms and mess up the steering.

will measure center to center on the tie rod ends and set them back to the same distance.
 

Just did this myself. The gap in the tie rod end tool (aka pickle fork) that I have is a bit too narrow, so it got stuck on the tapered part of the ball joint - so watch out for that.

The two hammer method has worked for me for years, but never with "tapping". I find it takes numerous serious hard whacks with two hand sledges (I mean one held in place while the other whacks), but it has always worked. It's a pretty good feeling when they pop out.
 
When belting it with a hammer slide a piece of plywood or MDF between the steering drop arm and the gearbox casing just in case .
 
tie rod breaker tool
I checked at the local O'Reilly's auto store.

they loan the tie rod breaker tool for 48 hrs no charge.
so I should be able to get one when I get my parts.
 
Hi All,

Recently did this on a TE20 without a removal tool. If you tap a metal wedge (i used a big axe) between the steering box and bolt, then give the steering arm a big whack with a hammer it will pop off. Two or three hits will do the job.
 

We sell tractor parts! We have the parts you need to repair your tractor - the right parts. Our low prices and years of research make us your best choice when you need parts. Shop Online Today.

Back
Top